Alex Thomson looks set to smash the long standing trans-Atlantic sailing record just ahead of the London Olympic 2012 Opening Ceremony.

The Gosport round-the-world yachtsman set sail alone from Ambrose Lighthouse off New York on Tuesday, July 17, and is now estimated to reach Lizard Point, off Falmouth, at 5pm on Thursday – more than a day ahead of the cut off to beat the single-handed Atlantic record.

The current record for what is officially known as the ‘West to East Ambrose Lighthouse to Lizard Point Under 60ft Single-Handed Monohull Record, Male’ sits at 10 days, 55 minutes and 19 seconds, and was set by Swiss sailor Bernhard Stamm ten years ago.

To beat the record he will need to arrive at Lizard Point before this Friday, July 27, at 8.09pm.

Alex has suffered from broken equipment on board his boat as well as a lack of sleep and constant exposure to the sea and sun, but remains optimistic in his crossing.

“The boat has been managing ok but I am very tired,” said Alex.

“Every time I sleep I either get a massive gust or big lull so short lived. I had one tough day without a full functioning auto pilot in 30-35 knot downwind conditions but am now up and running properly.

“Conditions are still very warm but very wet as you would expect. My skin is developing a rash from salt and sweat exposure but apart from lack of sleep I am just fine.”

Alex is on board his IMOCA 60 HUGO BOSS boat, which he will race in this year’s Vendee Globe.