News of Laura Dekker’s record as the youngest person to sail solo around the world has drawn global media attention. After completing her voyage on Saturday afternoon in the Caribbean island of St Maarten, the 16-year-old received over 300 requests for an interview.
In addition to her 366 days at sea, most media also report on her legal battle with the Dutch Child Welfare Council and its attempts to stop her from undertaking the perilous journey before completing her secondary education.
The BBC, for example, recounts how Laura isn’t having nightmares involving pirates or coral reefs but is haunted instead by her dealings with the Dutch authorities. CNN hails her achievement as both historic and controversial. German daily Bild also lauds her victory, not just over the elements of nature but especially “over all those who refused to have faith in her."
Non-stop
The Australian newspaper the Herald Sun, however, is at pains to emphasise that Laura made several stops during her voyage around the world, in contrast to Jessica Watson, the Australian 17-year-old who had held the world record as the youngest person to sail solo around the world until she was beaten by Laura on Saturday.
Papers in New Zealand focus on the fact that Laura’s boat didn’t fly the Dutch flag but that of New Zealand. She was born off the coast off New Zealand’s coast on the boat her parents sailed around the world for seven years. Laura has announced her intention of settling in New Zealand once she graduates from secondary school later this year.
(cl/imm)
© Radio Netherlands Worldwide
Email this Article
Printer-friendly version
I feel she is an inspiration to all young people Worldwide. She had a dream, she lived her dream, despite all of the attempts of negativity against her. I hope she realizes the inspiration, hope & faith she has shown for people of all ages and nationalities . The people that have so many doubts about what they can achieve, she will be their inspiration to do what they believe can't be done. I only hope she can see that. She is a true blessing from above. Her journey has shown that having a PMA-Postive Mental Attitude that you can accomplish what you put your mind to.
Laura, you are a brave, couragous, ambitious young woman that has proven that if you stand up for what you believe in you can accomplish that feat. Her achievement will stay in the lives and minds of many young people Worldwide.
Awesome, and now what..?
She now dishes holland becuase of it's existing policies regarding school and wants to move abroad.
I see her as nothing more then a spoiled rich girl.
Doesn't this make you feel so proud! What an extraordinary young woman and family. Congratulations on a Herculean feat!
Post new comment
Please be reminded all comments must be in English, short and to the point - guideline 250 words. Abusive and inappropriate comments will be removed.