Hants sailor's boat damaged during Vendée Globe race
The Gosport-based sailor Alex Thomson has managed to continue in the Vendée Globe race after his boat hit an unknown object while travelling at a high speed on Sunday night. There was rudder damage and his power sources were affected. He has spent the last 36 hours carrying out emergency repairs.
The 38-year-old is currently in fifth position and still travelling at around 20 knots. The damage to one of his hydro generators - leaving just one operational - means he has to cut down on his use of electronics on board to save power. Hydro generators are the primary power supply on board.
– Alex Thomson"I checked the blade for damage and all looks ok this time so I replaced the fuse and set it back down again, tacked the boat back again and got back on my way. More miles lost, but again, not terminal. I have had the working rudder kick up three times all year so it seems a little harsh to hit something twice in almost 1 day but I am thankful that the fuse is doing its job and the rudder is staying in one piece. I really hope I don’t get dropped off the back of this lead group with these setbacks”