For the best part of 20 years, this race has been my goal. We’ve come so close before. And this time, I really thought it was possible. I have the boat of my dreams. We put together a campaign that I am extremely proud of and, despite the setbacks of the last week, I still thought it was possible.
I’ve given my life to this sport and it’s a very difficult pill to swallow. So many people have supported me along the way and I can tell you, picking up the telephone to deliver the news, it’s heartbreaking. This sport, this race, it’s just so tough.
The messages of support have been incredible. I don’t feel worthy. But also from the other skippers and the teams, your words have really touched me. I sincerely hope you all make it safely to the finish.
Now I need to concentrate on taking this beautiful boat home. Getting out of Cape Town safely, and there I’ll officially retire from the race.
The last thing I need to say is to say thank you to everybody who has supported me. To my team, thank you for your dedication and your hard work. I know you couldn’t have done more. Thank you also to our partners who’ve worked tirelessly with us. You’ve shown such dedication. Such loyalty. And I can’t thank you enough.
I couldn’t quite make history this time round. But I can tell you, I gave it everything – everything – I’ve got.