Californian on course to break solo circumnavigation record
Jul 13th, 2009
A Californian teen is on course to set a new record for being the youngest person to sail on their own around the world. Zac Sunderland, who first circumnavigated the globe on a yacht when he was just 15, is currently going it alone on the 40,000-mile trip.
The 17-year-old, who has until January to beat the record, is now off the coast of Baja California and is expected to arrive into Marina Del Rey, California, on his 36-foot yacht 'Intrepid' within the next few days.
According to local broadcaster KTLA, the youngster wrote on his blog: "As I get closer and closer to home it is getting really exciting to be finishing up this yearlong adventure.
"It is going to be strange getting back but awesome to see my friends from Southern California. Just a few more days."
The record for the youngest person to circumnavigate the globe solo is presently held by David Dicks from Australia, who completed the feat at the age of 18 years and 41 days back in 1996.
However, Dicks' effort is still subject of some controversy, with many sailing enthusiasts believing the fact that he accepted a bolt to fix his rig while off the coast of the Falkland Islands means his efforts were not entirely unassisted.
"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?"
