Parlier embarks on record

French sailing legend makes second attempt on solo 24 hour record

This morning, with 11h45 GMT, Yves Parlier took advantage of good weather conditions to set off on an attempt on the singlehanded 24 hour record. After five hours of sailing, his radical Médiatis Région Aquitaine catamaran was regularly sailing at over 30 knots and had covered 126 miles at an average of 27 knots

Last night.Parlier took up station off Mauritania, to benefit from weather that was forecast to develop this morning. Over the next 24 hours the forecast indicated the wind will be well established at 20-25 knots and flat water - ideal conditions to beat the record.

Médiatis Région Aquitaine officially started at 11:46GMT this morning and the target is to beat the 543 mile record held by Laurent Bourgon. In preparation Parlier has spent the last week training for this attempt. This he has been carrying out with the help of former Banque Populaire 60ft trimaran skipper Lalou Roucayrol. Prior to setting off this morning Parlier commented: " Médiatis Région Aquitaine is well prepared and the weather conditions are good. This attempt will be one of prudence. I will sail regularly, without pushing the boat too much…”