Operator left a common anchoring area to the SW of the N. Causeway Dr. Bridge, and at approximately 1400hrs requested a bridge opening so that he could sail north. Operator made his way to the channel and oriented north to wait for the bridge to open. There was a second sailboat that was anchored close to the N. Causeway bridge that had not requested a bridge opening, and once the bridge opened the second sailboat proceeded under the N. Causeway Dr. bridge. Upon clearing the bridge the second sailboat gave the all clear. Operator was also cruising north and began to hail the bridge to stay open, but due to weak communications with the bridge tender the bridge continued to close and struck the Primrose Lane on the mast.

FORT PIERCE                   