Youngest sailor, youngest female to attempt solo circumnavigation

Jessica Watson, a young woman sailor who cruised with her parents aboard their 50 foot boat and who has done more offshore preparation than many adults who set sail around the world, will set off on a solo circumnavigation this year. Inspired by Kay Cottee, fellow Aussie who was the first woman to sail around the world solo, non-stop and unassisted, much of Jessica's story rings familiar. Cottee, too, retrofitted a boat and was very involved with all aspects of the voyage. An experienced sailor, boat owner, maintenance whiz and savvy businesswoman, Kay Cottee had more experience than Jessica, but in this age of home learning options, the young sailor may not be as far behind her older peers as people assume. Her parents seem like savvy folks, are native New Zealanders (a huge genetic plus right there) and their preparation through example and prudent adventure are quite a contrast to other parents I've read about who "let" their kids go to sea. I'll be following Jessica's voyage with optimism and hope. Fair winds, young sailor and may the seas be kind teachers.