Southampton's Mike Golding has congratulated Alex Thomson on breaking the British Vendee Globe record he set eight years ago.
Golding completed the round-the-world yacht race in 88 days in 2004/05 but Thomson surpassed that this morning when he arrived at the finish line in Les Sables d'Olonne in 80 days, 19 hours, 23 mins, 43 secs.
"I would like to congratulate Alex on a fantastic race," said Golding. "Before the race began it was clear that Alex had a good connection with this boat and he has sailed the race he deserves.
"I have communicated with him once or twice and he was solid with his conviction to finish the race. He was determined to finish and it's great that he has a podium finish to boot."
Golding is 1,864 nautical miles from the finish and his hopes of beating his personal best look to have been dashed after losing part of his keel as Thomson prepared to celebrate his achievement.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here