Tom Dolan reflects on his 2024 Figaro season
by Tom Dolan 22 Oct 2024 22:52 AEDT
Ireland's Tom Dolan (Smurfit Kappa-Kingspan) wins 55th La Solitaire du Figaro Paprec overall © Alexis Courcoux
With the 2024 Figaro programme drawing to a close, it is the perfect time to take stock of the past season, which will remain etched in my memory in more ways than one. It has been full of challenges and lessons but it is the achievements, which have taken centre stage.
The Solitaire du Figaro was the highlight of these past few months and securing victory in this legendary race is so much more than just a sporting success. It is the culmination of several years of unremitting work, resilience and moments of doubt, where passion and enthusiasm won out in the end!
Beyond the competition aspect, I'm also proud to announce an initiative that is very close to my heart: recycling the boat's used sails. As a skipper, I'm very attached to the sea and it's crucial for me to help preserve this environment, which gives us so much. Transforming old sails into recycled products is a way for me and for my sponsors Smurfit Kappa and Kingspan to get involved in this sustainable approach and show that it is possible for us to combine performance and a deep respect for our environment.
I'd like to the make the most of this opportunity to thank all my partners, and especially my sponsors Smurfit-Kappa, Kingspan and Dubarry. Your commitment has been a huge source of motivation for me and without you, this victory in the Solitaire du Figaro, as well as the whole of the past season, would not have been possible.
I would also like to thank the entire community following my progress. Your support has been a powerful driver, even in the toughest of times. It's a privilege to share my genuine passion of sailing with you. You've inspired me to constantly take my performance to the next level and to raise my game right across the board!
Tom Dolan
Skipper of the boat Smurfit Kappa - Kingspan