Hampshire yachtsmen hail 'amazing' Vendee Globe victory (From Daily Echo)

Hampshire yachtsmen hail 'amazing' Vendee Globe victory

8:24am Monday 28th January 2013 in Sport

HAMPSHIRE duo Mike Golding and Alex Thomson have sent their congratulations to Vendee Globe winner Francois Gabart.

Gabart was first across the finishing line yesterday off the French port of Les Sables.

Golding, who is currently sixth as he bids to finish the Vendee for the third time in his career, remarked: “What can we say but our very best congratulations?

“It seems totally inadequate for what you have achieved.

“Your amazing race and, it has to be said, that of the entire leading group, has provided in 2012/13 something simply fantastic – if at times frustrating – to watch from back the ‘cheap seats’ of the chasing pack.

“Your race has been simply stunning and breaking 80 days is just a cherry on the top – it’s a dream which you must enjoy.

“Enjoy the moment in Les Sables d'Olonne, I’m sure this is just the beginning for one so young and with such talent.”

Thomson, who is likely to finish third in the race with a possible arrival in Les Sables on Wednesday afternoon, tweeted: “Congrats to @francoisgabart for a fabulous VG, youngest and quickest ever winner #welldeserved #VG2012