La Route du Rhum

[BigJoe]

I'm a big Alex Thompson fan, however, to use an engine, to gain an advantage, as he would still probably be ashore if he hadn't used it, is, for me, a disqualification.

 

[ridgy]

If this wasn't a justifiable use of the engine then it's hard to see what would be. In which case they might as well just say "any use of engine is instant DQ".

 

[Wansworth]

whats wrong with a two handed race,certainly test the boats more obviously safer at the speeds their going at but it wouldn’t feed the egos of the skippers.Nothing against singlehanded sailing but surely a team effort is just as valid?

 

[BigJoe]

Justifiable use of the engine ................... yes, to get himself off the rocks, however, he gained an advantage, so I'm not sure how he can keep position, hope i am wrong.

 

[Roberto]

24h penalty, jury direct on tv

 

[XDC]

Watching live on Facebook, he thinks the 24 hour penalty fair. He said he has a watch that gives him a shock to wake him. He jusdnt didn’t feel it. MASSES of French comments complimenting him. Nice to read.

 

[BigJoe]

Alex, very graceful, taking it on the chin............... respect

 

[Sybarite]

Not 100% sure of the rules, however, I believe Alex will be disqualified for using his engine

I saw clips of sailors using both hands. Should they be disqualified too?

 

[Roger52]

From the interview onboard and on the quay it seems his watch had lost charge so didn't shock him and he didn't hear the audible alarm. He has shown great sportsmanship and I'm sure will be respected for his comment that he didn't deserve to win. He must be devastated. He sailed a great race and has the fastest boat. He said himself that there are lots of pluses to take forward into the Vendee.

 

[Bathdave]

All the focus is on Alex, Claire Pruvot in a Class 40 has been run down by a tanker, which has picked her up safe and well

 

[BigJoe]

I saw clips of sailors using both hands. Should they be disqualified too?

I don't make the rules..................................

 

[MrB]

Gutted but fair play to Alex, bring on the Vendee Globe.

 

[Spyro]

From the interview onboard and on the quay it seems his watch had lost charge so didn't shock him and he didn't hear the audible alarm. He has shown great sportsmanship and I'm sure will be respected for his comment that he didn't deserve to win. He must be devastated. He sailed a great race and has the fastest boat. He said himself that there are lots of pluses to take forward into the Vendee.

I can see that happening but the course he was on from way off seemed all wrong. Something must have put him on that collision course. Even if he had gone for a sleep he was well off course to hit that bit of the island.

 

[Roger52]

AT takes third place so at least on the podium. Seems fair.

 

[geem]

In Guadeloupe at the moment. Watching the boats come past. We were anchored at Basse-Terre where they squeeze the competitor close to shore. Great to see 50 ft Trimarans come past on one hull! Lots of chase boats unable to keep up.

 

[Roger52]

Although AT has attracted most attention let's not forget Phil Sharp and Jack Trigger in the Class 40. Sharp was clearly disappointed with his 3rd place but he made the podium and Trigger should finish 8th. Pretty good out of about 50 starters.