SCHOOLGIRL TO SET WORLD RECORD

Jessica Watson on Ella's Pink Lady

“Today, I am going to sail around the world.” – Jessica Watson

It's really astounding to learn that there is a schoolgirl who has a clear vision and sheer determination to undergo a treacherous journey to become the youngest person to sail solo and unassisted around the world.

This extraordinary person is Jessica Watson, a 16-year-old Australian who sailed her Ella's Pink Lady yacht out of Sydney on Sunday on a 23,600 -nautical- miles voyage around the world.

34- feet Ella's Pink Lady yacht

After leaving Sydney, Jessica will heads northern New Zealand, then to Fiji, Samoa, South America, South Africa, then sail the final leg of 4,000 nautical miles back to Australia. The entire journey will take about eight months.

Jassica's endeavor has sparked a debate in Australia about whether someone so young should be allowed to try such a potentially dangerous feat. However,Watson and her family insist that she has studied navigation, electronics and maritime safety procedures and is an experienced and capable sailor.

Jessica also informed that although she will sail solo and unassisted, she will be in constant contact with her support team via radio, e-mail and a blog.

Bon Voyage Jessica Watson! May your voyage around the world will be safe, speedy and a great accomplishment indeed.