Hugo Boss confirm 5-Oceans

Fresh attempt for Alex Thomson to sail singlehanded around the world

Hugo Boss, sponsored British Yachtsman Alex Thomson today announced his plans to compete in the forthcoming 5-Oceans Race, a solo circumnavigation with stopovers, organised by his sailing mentor, Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, Chairman of race management company Clipper Ventures.

“Robin has taken an historic oceanic yacht race and funked it up," says Thomson. "I am really excited about taking on this challenge. The 5-Oceans, like any solo circumnavigation, is a massive undertaking and ultimately I am aiming to finish it. The format that Robin has developed means that it will be a thrilling and testing competition; it will attract the IMOCA Open 60 skippers who are at the top of their game and if I can win it then that is a bonus. But ultimately I want to use it as an opportunity to learn as much as I possibly can.”

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, Chairman of race management company Clipper Ventures plc, said "I am delighted that Alex is on board for the 2006 5-Oceans Race. He is an extremely talented sailor who's highly tenacious and prepared to push hard to win. Our association with Alex goes back to when he won our other event, the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race in 1998-99. I am delighted to see how his sailing career has developed and his success at working with his sponsors. It is like welcoming back a member of the family."

Alex Thomson and his sponsor Hugo Boss are showcasing their Grand Prix racing yacht the Open 60 Hugo Boss at the Palma International Boat Show. The 21st edition of the boat show runs from 24 April-2 May 2004 and is located in the Balearic Islands.

“Palma is a magnificent backdrop to announce Alex’s entry into the 5-Oceans. We are delighted to be here at the boat show with him at the first port of call on the ‘Hugo Boss Tour 2005’ and to announce to the world his intentions to participate in this dramatic and challenging race. Alex is a sporting hero in the making; charismatic, his lateral thinking and individualistic style draws audiences to him and we are pleased to support him at the start of this exciting journey,” said Til Till Pohlmann, Head of Sports Sponsorship, Hugo Boss.

The Hugo Boss Tour 2005 beginning at the XXI Palma International Boat Show runs into a busy schedule of racing and showcase events. For more information on the activities of Alex Thomson and his Hugo Boss sponsored Open 60, check out: Races & Events and http://www.hugoboss-sailing.com