NAVY NEWS, OCTOBER 2009
Single-minded sailors YOU can'ttell from this picture, but thisis the flagstaff of HMS Puncher with the White Ensign billowing the patrol boat escorts record-breaking yachtsman Mike Perham home. At 17 years and 164 days, the teenager became the youngest person to single-handedly sail around the globe. Not one but two Naval vessels and a helicopter honoured his achievements at the end of his 30,000-mile odyssey. HMS Mersey and a Sea King from 771 NAS escorted Mike and his boat Totallymoney. com (wonder who the sponsors are? Ed) into Falmouth after he crossed the traditional Lizard/Ushantfinish line. The teenager whose grandfather served in RN minesweepers during WW2 is two months younger than the previous recordholder. American Zac Sutherland.
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After the celebrations in Cornwall. the yachtsman guided his craft up the Channel to Portsmouth for an official homecoming; he began his global challenge at Gunwharf Quays in November2008. And it was there that he was welcomed back by thousands of well-wishers... and one RN patrol boat. HMS Puncher, which typically provides training for London's University Royal Naval Unit, met Totallymoney.comoffcowes and thenaccompanied the yacht into Portsmouth Harbour. “We made it and I can't believe that the Royal Navy have supported my return I feel extremely honoured." said the teenager. Puncher's CO Lt Tim Leeder added: “Mike sets a fine example to young people today his record-breaking achievement adds immensely to this country's distinguished maritime heritage." —
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Picture:
lJ\(Phot] Karen Williams. FRPU East
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