SIR Robin Knox Johnston has reported he is “fine, absolutely fine” after a dramatic first few days of racing in the Route de Rhum saw 11 competitors withdraw.

Thomas Coville was forced to retire last night after a collision with cargo ship.

Others have withdrawn from the race, which started off St Malo in France last Sunday, due to dismasting, broken rudders, shredded mainsails, lost keels, technical problems and personal injuries.

But Hampshire legend Sir Robin, at 75 easily the eldest competitor in the race which finishes in Guadaloupe, has so far avoided all those issues – with a stomach upset his main worry.

“I have seen gusts to 35 knots and am about 37 miles from Ushant,” Sir Robin reported.

“The first night I did see a 40 knot gust at one stage but I was ready for it.

“I got the third reef in and the storm jib up.

“We were alright. I am fine, absolutely fine, just looking forwards to getting past Ushant and get away.

“I always think you start racing at Finisterre but the main objective just now is just to get around Ushant.

“I am eating properly now after my stomach upset, so I am all good.”

Knox-Johnston’s Grey Power was this morning up to 12th in the class.