Outdoor Adventure

You might have heard on the world news lately that there is a 16 year old school girl from Australia, by the name of Jessica Watson, who is causing quiet a stir. She is attempting to be the “youngest person, to Sailing around the World solo, non stop” and to achieve one of her childhood dreams. She is attempting to Sail 38,000 Km around the world in about 230 days without any help. She will be sailing into some of the world’s wildest seas, and going where even grown men would fear to sail.

The reason this story has created so much controversy is that there is no right or wrong answer, it depends on your perspective. The story has divided the communities in some ways, some saying it’s too risky and dangerous, she is too young and innocent be taking on the mighty sea by herself. While others are really in support of someone so young living out their dreams, after all even 16 year old school girls have dreams to follow.

If you come from a Family oriented perspective, you  will no doubt be disagreeing with Jessica’s parents allowing her to attempt to set a new world record, sailing around the world.

If your someone like myself who loves outdoor adventure or achieving life dreams you will be probably cheering her on and following her progress with great interest. The fact that she seems be doing it for all the right reasons, other than the attention, and she is extremely prepared, makes me understand why her parents seemed comfortable allow her follow her dreams, and to attempt such an adventure. The interview on 60 mins indicated to me that her life dream is sail around the world, and the world record is just and excuse to do it at such a young age.  Jessica was extremely prepare in terms of her yacht & equipment, and the fact that she had been sailing with her family since she was a child tells me that she has a lot of experience even for a 16 year old girl.

This part is hard for many people to understand because many people have not sailed out in the open ocean or travelled into outback where there is little help available, which can put you way out of your comfort zone. This in itself is the attraction, to test yourself and grow as person, and why preparation is the key for a successful adventure.

I wish Jessica Watson all the best, sailing around the world, and may her journey be a safe one.

I will be watching with great interest. Go Oz!!

Cade Arnel
Outdoor Adventurer
www.outdooradventureplace.uwcblog.com   2009

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This entry was posted on Friday, November 6th, 2009 at 10:09 pm and is filed under Outdoor Adventure. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.