Yacht record attempt naysayers 'are sexist'
Sep 28th, 2009
The mother of an Australian schoolgirl planning to become the youngest person ever to sail around the world single-handedly has hit out at the naysayers.Julie Watson - mum to 16-year-old Jessica - said those calling her daughter's ability and experience into question were "sexist".
She revealed the findings of a recent Queensland Maritime Safety Bureau (MSQ) investigation were never supposed to have been made public and suggested barriers are being put up to slow the progress of the record attempt.
"There is a young fellow from England, Mike Perham, who set out about a year ago and just finished. He is currently the youngest circumnavigator," she told ABC News.
Mrs Watson explained the youngster had faced a "barrage of criticism", but added it was nothing compared to what her daughter was dealing with.
Jessica's test trip to Sydney ended in disaster when her yacht collided with a cargo ship - leading some, including the MSQ, to question her ability to complete the voyage.
Meanwhile, the Observer has suggested that holidaymakers looking for a trip with a difference could hire a yacht.
"I would recommend Dream Marine to others. Everyone was easygoing and helpful. I didn’t mind who I talked to. It was all good. Shame having to come back to London afterwards.
Come on Chris… when’s the next one?"
Come on Chris… when’s the next one?"
