One week after officially pulling out of the competition due to rudder damage, Sébastien Josse (BT) reached New Zealand and the safe waters of Viaduct Basin in Auckland yesterday January 5 at 23.45 GMT.
"Of course, it's great to see the guys from the team, and I really enjoy their welcome, but I can't help thinking that my former rivals in the race have now rounded Cape Horn and are now on the last stretch, headed for home. I was really anxiously waiting to be back in the Atlantic because I knew I could potentially make great gains there: I wanted that tactical battle. I was waiting for my time to come, and it's hard to be watching the game from the touchline. Looking at the bright side of things, we have a boat in one piece. I have spent a week taking notes on what can be optimised and made better for the 2009 season. I've learnt a lot once more, and at least proved that I was right up there with the best of the fleet, both in terms of speed and tactics. I'll be back on the water very soon... but right now, what I want is a haircut, a nice shower, a decent meal and a good night in a real bed!"