SAN FRANCISCO >> The U.S. Coast Guard has sent rescuers to aid three sailors seriously injured in a storm during a race some 400 miles off the California coast.

A spokesperson for the Clipper 11-12 Round the World Yacht Race said Saturday that the nearly 70-foot Geraldton Western Australia took on a large wave, which swept away its steering mounting and some communications equipment. Wind gusts over 60 knots were reported during the storm.

Three crew members suffered back, rib and pelvic injuries.

Rescuers will parachute down to the yacht when they arrive on the scene early Sunday. The Coast Guard says one of its cutters has been diverted to help and will arrive later Sunday.

The yacht is proceeding under secondary steering toward San Francisco Bay, where it will finish Leg 6 of the race.