It's a rare young teen who is mature enough for such an undertaking, and I fully agree with disallowing it. Some people are just out there to prove something, to be the youngest to achieve something. Robin Lee Graham was 16 when he sailed the Dove on a solo trip around the world, but even this experienced sailor had lots of issues.
I used to sail, when I was a teen. But, rule #1 was to never go out alone, rule #2, never go out alone without an auxiliary engine. I was only crossing the Channel from Redondo Beach to Catalina Island and back, some 22 miles, and it wasn't fun when the currents turned against us (common in that channel).
I seriously doubt a 13 year old girl would have the mental strength and wherewithal to accomplish such a feat on her own. She would require a support team following her around. Plus, the physical strength it takes to sail high seas is more than some men can handle. I don't care how skilled she is, she's still a girl - and a perfect target for atrocities that men would inflict against a female. Sorry to say it, but, let's get real.
There are other ways a young girl can make her mark on this world. Why not teach underprivileged kids how to sail?
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It's a rare young teen who is mature enough for such an undertaking, and I fully agree with disallowing it. Some people are just out there to prove something, to be the youngest to achieve something. Robin Lee Graham was 16 when he sailed the Dove on a solo trip around the world, but even this experienced sailor had lots of issues.
I used to sail, when I was a teen. But, rule #1 was to never go out alone, rule #2, never go out alone without an auxiliary engine. I was only crossing the Channel from Redondo Beach to Catalina Island and back, some 22 miles, and it wasn't fun when the currents turned against us (common in that channel).
I seriously doubt a 13 year old girl would have the mental strength and wherewithal to accomplish such a feat on her own. She would require a support team following her around. Plus, the physical strength it takes to sail high seas is more than some men can handle. I don't care how skilled she is, she's still a girl - and a perfect target for atrocities that men would inflict against a female. Sorry to say it, but, let's get real.
There are other ways a young girl can make her mark on this world. Why not teach underprivileged kids how to sail?
August 31, 2009 - 4:34pmThis Comment
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