The operator of t he sail boat stated that he saw the barge coming and was attempting a port to port pass.  He was "side tacking" on a starboard tack when his sailboat stalled in the water.  He said "the wind was in irons."  He had no steering and could tell he was drifting toward the barge.  As some point, he tried to start then engine, but then realized it would take too long because of the glow plug.  He tried a "jibe" to get the boat to turn, but as he tried a gust of wind from the North hit and the boat was turned directly into the path of the barge.  He yelled for the passengers to get off the boat.  The barge hit the starboard side of the sailboat.  The operator tried to jump from his vessel to the bow of the barge, missed and went into the water.  All occupants were picked up by a pleasurecraft in the area and transported to the marina where the fire department then transported the operator and one passenger to the hospital.  Both victims were treated and released later the same night.  The operator of the sail boat received a citation for operating a watercraft while interfering with navigation.
Peoria                        