Hole in Etchells Aluminum Mast with pictures. Need advice.
 

Hi how are you, just looking for some input and advice. I have an Etchells and another boat, out of control, hit my boat and slid up on the deck punching a hole roughly 1.5 inches diameter in my aluminum mast just below where the boom attaches to the mast. There is a small indentation about 1/2 inch around the perimiter of the hole and no other apparent damage to the mast or boat upon close inspection. The Etchells mast is anchored below deck for those unfamiliar. I'm curious if there is a possibility of this being repaired while still keeping the integrity of the mast suitable to sail. I have some great pics available of the damage and links to these pics are below. If you have any suggestions or advice I would be grateful.
Thank you in advance, GGman.

http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/c...n_38/mast1.jpg

http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/c...n_38/mast2.jpg

http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/c...n_38/mast3.jpg

http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/c...n_38/mast4.jpg

Hole in cheek
 

If you merely cover the hole to keep water from entering your mast will be fine. It would be like a hole in your cheek. If you cover it up you can still whistle and blow a horn. From what the picture shows there will be very little strength integrity loss.

Sure, when you eventually pull the mast you can have it welded over assuming an appropriate welding method is used to prevent a larger surround that is weaker than what exists with the hole.

Any conflicting comments?