Jessica Watson's Sydney Harbour Arrival
Jessica Watson's arrival after a epic solo around the world sail for the sixteen year old will be beamed live nationally around the nation by all television channels. In an unprecedented move all broadcasters will be beaming the event live to all Australians. Still not old enough to hold a driving licence Jessica's voyage will enter the record books.
Only month's ago Jessica and her parents were castigated for undertaking such an epic and dangerous adventure. Watson argued more than convincingly that it was more dangerous to walk through Kings Cross or go clubbing than sailing around the world.
Indeed I think she is absolutely right every Friday and Saturday nights here in Brisbane you can venture if you dare into the club pick up scene in Fortitude Valley where you will see scores of women and men getting themselves absolutely stoned on alcohol and other things. Then after a couple of hours of reasonably sociable behaviour many will get seriously drunk and incapable of doing anything.
What makes this fairytale all the more remarkable is the fact that shortly after leaving the shores of Mooloolaba, Queensland during night one in fact she collided with a Bulk Carrier in the shipping lane just outside of Brisbane. Her boat required extensive repairs including a new mast, rigging and some repairs to the superstructure. Ir looked at that stage that she would have to with draw with all the criticism that both herself and her family were copping for undertaking such a feat at such a young age.
Now she is or will become adarling of the media. Will multi million dollar advertising deals already in the offing. Jessica’s historic solo around-the-world sailing trip is now just hours from completion with the talented teenager less than 40 nautical miles from home. Tens of thousands of well-wishers and fans including a host of VIPs, are expected to line Sydney Harbour this morning to greet the 16-year-old who has spent the last seven months at sea.
- Jessica Watson - 16 year old solo sailor to circumnavigate the globe
Those of you who read my hubs will know that I have an interest in young sailors. This started when, at the age of 11 or 12, I read 'Dove' - Robin Lee Graham's account of his single handed circumnavigation... - Jessica Watson home run~Update*
Fellow Hubber CatherineR has written extensively about Jessica Watson's achievements here. Now that some five month's has elapsed since the launch of her 'maiden' round the woreld solo sailing adventure...
Jessica Watson was voted and awarded Young Australian of the Year for 2011.