New Delhi, September 26: Commander Abhilash Tomy, who was rescued by the French Navy on Monday, issued a statement today crediting his naval training for surviving the unprecedented storm which struck the Indian Ocean while he was participating in the Golden Globe Race 2018.

Tomy, who is being treated at the remote Amsterdam Island, located 2,735 km away from Mauritius, is now reported to be in a stable condition. According to the Indian Navy, Tomy would be flown to Mauritius as soon as his condition further improves. First Visuals of Rescue Operation of Commander Abhilash Tomy, Injured Navy Officer; Watch Video.

"The sea was unbelievably rough. Me and my boat Thuriya were pitched against the nature's might. I survived because of my sailing skills, the soldier bit in me and my naval training cut-in for that fight. Very thankful to Indian Navy and all who rescued me," Commander Tomy was quoted as saying by the Navy Spokesperson.

Commander Tomy was participating in the Golden Globe Race, where 11 participants are using 1968 vintage boats and technology to circumnavigate solo and non-stop. The race is being held to celebrate the golden anniversary of first such solo circumnavigation in 1968.

The naval officer, who holds the record of being the only Indian to circumvent the globe, lost contact with the race organisers after being hit by a severe storm in the Indian Ocean.

After losing contact for nearly 48 hours, an injured Tomy reached out to the French Navy via satellite messages seeking help. Subsequently, the French vessel Osiris was sent to rescue him.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 26, 2018 06:19 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).