Solo Circumnavigation: Would You Encourage Her?

[flyboy55]

I saw this and thought of that young girl, Jessica Dubroff, who at age 7 was attempting to become the youngest person to pilot an airplane across the U.S. when she was killed in a crash with her instructor. A regulation was later passed that prohibits people who don't hold licenses from attempting to set flying records.

I understand that this sailing situation is a bit different, notably that the young Australian girl is a fairly experienced 16 year old sailor. I'm thinking of the 'record setting' aspect of things. Does the publicity and pressure surrounding these attempts drive people to extremes? Solo circumnavigation has been done many times, by both men and women and other young people. Should the next frontier in sailing achievement consist of trying to be the youngest solo circumnavigator? How young is too young?

http://msn.foxsports.com/other/story/9732744

I think the achievement of difficult goals is important for young folks. It gives them confidence and sets the course for the rest of their lives. Just not sure about this one.

When she does set out, I will wish her "fair winds and following seas".

[Spider Johnson]

She seems to be as well prepared as anyone can be and even better prepared than some that have done it. She has the knowledge from others that have done it, to put use. She seems to be tough enough to be up to the challenge, and experienced enough to handle the challenges she will be facing with the boat, seas, weather, etc.

As for the teacher's comments about her being in school. I have to say she is getting a far better and more meaningful education than any public school could ever provide her with.
All the best be with her, her boat, her journey.

God Speed and a safe return!

[land_shark3]

I saw this and thought of that young girl, Jessica Dubroff, who at age 7 was attempting to become the youngest person to pilot an airplane across the U.S. when she was killed in a crash with her instructor. A regulation was later passed that prohibits people who don't hold licenses from attempting to set flying records.

You'll have to excuse my ignorance, but I'm sure the law is a bit more specific. She was young enough to train to get her license but too young to say she wanted to be the first person to _______? Is that the case or is there already a regulation stating how old you must be to obtain a pilot's license?

[chrisintampa]

she seems to have a fair amount of experience for someone her age and seems to be seeking out the help of experts. I however question if someone her age is really making that decision her family has lived on boats are boating enthusiasts is there any pressure? even if it is purely her idea the emotional competence necessary to spend hundreds of days alone at sea with no long solo passage experience under her belt(from what i have read) seems to make it not seem like the best idea. However if she makes the trip i wish her the best

[parrothead3282]

I saw this and thought of that young girl, Jessica Dubroff, who at age 7 was attempting to become the youngest person to pilot an airplane across the U.S. when she was killed in a crash with her instructor. A regulation was later passed that prohibits people who don't hold licenses from attempting to set flying records.

You'll have to excuse my ignorance, but I'm sure the law is a bit more specific. She was young enough to train to get her license but too young to say she wanted to be the first person to _______? Is that the case or is there already a regulation stating how old you must be to obtain a pilot's license?

You must be at least 16 years old to fly an airplane solo (by yourself) with a student pilot certificate, and 17 years old to get a private pilot license. There is no upper age limit, provided that you are healthy enough to pass the basic medical exam.

You can take lesson at any age however.