Inspirational or an act of Stupidity

As a journalist, I find news related stories on sailing very interesting. Sailing is more than a sport. Sailing brings out now and again shocking and tragic stories. Brave men and women risk their lives taking part in this very challenging sport. You come across heart breaking stories and some controversial ones. Let’s take a look at a story which has generated an international debate in Australia and around the world. Teen sensation Jessica Watson is attempting to become the youngest person to sail around the world. This story has created a stir among every one in the International Yachting community. As a Journalist you have to analyze the historic attempt and the stupidity. Sailing around the world is no mean joke; you have to prepare lots for such an ordeal. There are no short cuts to preparing for such a feat. Jessica’s family and her team have backed her fully in attempting this really dangerous expedition. Even veteran of the Volvo Ocean race Andrew Cape sent her a word of warning, but she has rejected the warning and is determined to go ahead. Would this go into the history books as an inspirational attempt or just a foolish act of stupidity? Being a sailing journalist, you often come up with controversial pieces like this. For more information on this story click on the following url:Jessica Watson solo sailing world record attempt Australian Andrew Cape Teen solo sailor Watson's camp rejects death warning

Tragedy strikes as Andrew and Sally die doing what they love most. This story is really heart breaking and sad as the community lost two of the most experienced and respected sailors on the sailing circuit. The irony is that just before embarking on another yacht race, Andrew hand delivered a letter to young Jessica Watson, warning that the “unforgiving “ocean could cost her life. It was really sad and ironic because it was the last letter he would ever write as he and Sally died in a freak accident during their race. The other 16 team members managed to survive. But it was a really sad day for them as a team and they were in complete shock to lose very close friends and two of the most experienced sailors on board. I am fortunate that a close friend of mine survived the tragedy. He was part of the 16 survivors who were part of the team. Andrew Short’s 19 year old son survived the ordeal. On his facebook status my friend had written “Andrew Short & Sally Gordon RIP. I'll miss you both so much. Andrew you are a legend, you gave me a chance to prove my worth. I'm glad I was by your side last night......I will remember it forever.” This was a very emotional and sad story to witness as I sailed a 60 foot yacht for the first time last Friday. As a friend, I am glad my friend survived. As a passionate sailor I am sad that such tragedies happen in our sport. As a budding journalist – whether it is covering sailing or competing in the sport, for brave inspirational stories like Andrew / Sally or because of controversial stories of sailors like Jessica Watson. For more information on this tragic story visit Andrew and Sally ... masters of their craft