Two days in and it has been absolutely hard going for Xavier Doerr, who on Sunday departed Southport Yacht Club, Queensland on his ‘Little Aussie Lap’.
The 21-year-old is aiming to beat the World Speed Sailing and Guinness World Records as the fastest and smallest racing yacht to solo circumnavigate Australia without stopping.
For more information on the record attempt, see: https://www.mysailing.com.au/xavier-doerr-to-attempt-solo-circumnavigation-of-australia/
It was a hectic night last night for Doerr on board his 21ft Mini Transat yacht ‘Waterline’, as anyone watching the radar has seen. Throughout the night the Queenslander was battling 30 knot winds gusting to 40-plus knots and surfing down the back of four-plus metre waves. It was a rough and wet night with no sleep. But as the wind and seas ease later today, he will be able to dry out.
Doerr is looking good; he is on track. After two full days, he has sailed 223nm and is rounding Fraser Island to start and head up toward the Great Barrier Reef.
He was able to jump on the sat phone and chat to his team this morning; his Mum Caitlin, Steve Curtis, and myself, and he will check in with Simon Turpin this afternoon. The little legend sounds great besides being super tired. He is looking forward to the next few days, getting some food in, some much needed rest and getting into a routine.
He wanted to say thanks for all the support. Still buoyed by the incredible flotilla that saw him off and can’t wait to see you all soon.
Keep updated through Facebook, Instagram, and his tracker: www.thelittleaussielap.com/tracker
By Peta-Jayne Habner
