HE'S the legendary Hampshire sailor determined to rule the waves at the age of 75.

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston will return to his solo ocean racing roots by taking part in the French single-handed classic the Route de Rhum later this year.

The first ever man to sail solo non-stop around the world in the late 1960s has announced he will tackle the challenge on his Open 60 entry Grey Power.

His last entry into the 3,500 mile transatlantic race - from St Malo to Guadeloupe - was in 1982 on a 70ft catamaran called Olympus.

Sir Robin is the oldest participant entered so far, and sailors will cross the Bay of Biscay before reaching the French Caribbean island of Guadeloupe.

He will be racing in the Rhum class and will start serious practice one the current Clipper Round the World Yacht Race finishing in July.

The 75-year-old is the chairman and founder of the Clipper race, which is currently being battled out in the Pacific Ocean.

This month also sees Sir Robin celebrate the 45th anniversary of his inaugural 312 day circumnavigation on April 22.

He said: “Participating in the 2013 Rolex Sydney to Hobart Race reminded me how much I enjoy the excitement of an ocean race.

“Solo sailing is where I feel most at home - no one else can benefit you or let you down - it is all in my hands. The Route de Rhum is one of the classics - it is a very well-run race.”