By thomashowson2 — La Solitaire du Figaro
Alexis Thomas (Wings of the Ocean) has delivered an outstanding performance, securing second place in the 57th edition of La Solitaire du Figaro Paprec. After finishing sixth on the final leg between Pornichet and Le Havre, Thomas claimed second overall in this year’s race. In his sixth attempt at this legendary event, Thomas has posted his best result to date, including a third-place finish on the second stage. He crossed the line with a race time of 11 days, 3 hours, 15 minutes and 26 seconds.
©Vincent Olivaud
Alexis Thomas (Wings of the Ocean): “I still can’t quite believe where I am right now – whether I’m still at sea or back on land. There were definitely two very different phases out there. First, we had the calm, and then the final 24 hours were absolutely brutal. We knew we’d get caught after Île de Sein, so we tried not to get too excited and get some proper rest – but honestly, it was impossible. The wind was far too unstable. I managed about 30 minutes sleep for the entire last leg. I haven’t slept since the Glénan Islands. I’m completely shattered, but I’m absolutely buzzing about how I performed. I sailed well despite a couple of silly mistakes – I managed the race strategy nicely and I was confident in my speed and my tactical calls throughout. I’m genuinely proud of myself. I sailed a cracking race and – wow – I’m finishing second. The start to the season has been seriously good. The pressure’s been building with each race, and it’s pretty special what’s happening right now. My thoughts go out to the Irish guy though – I’m gutted for him. Two people really drove this race: Tom and Nico. We’ll miss Tom – he deserved this one. This win has a special flavour because of that. This is my sixth go at it, and honestly, it felt like the hardest one yet. To finish behind Nicolas, who I admire so much, but just minutes behind – that’s genuinely gratifying. I’m stoked to be battling it out with someone at that level.”
*Pending Jury decision
Originally published in French by La Solitaire du Figaro.
