Brit boy, 17, becomes youngest solo round-the-world sailor

London, Aug 27 (ANI): A 17-year-old Briton has become the youngest person to circumnavigate the world solo with assistance.

According to his team, Mike Perham raced past the finishing line between Lizard Point and Ushant, France, in his 50ft yacht Totallymoney.com at 9.47 and 30 seconds on Thursday.

Mike set sail from Portsmouth, Hampshire, on November 15, 2008 and celebrated his 17th birthday in the South Indian Ocean on March 16.

The teenager braved 50ft waves, gale, stormy winds and various other technical difficulties to successfully complete the 30,000-mile challenge.e crossed Portugal, the Canaries, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand during the voyage.

He also travelled across the Panama Canal on his trip.

The adventure freak, who is also the youngest person to cross the Atlantic Ocean at 14, crossed the equator and every longitudinal line to set up the world record.

The Telegraph quotes Craig Glenday, editor-in-chief of Guinness World Records, as saying: "This is another incredible achievement, and it marks Mike as the consummate record-breaker - someone who's continually prepared to set themselves new and more challenging goals.

"Even the most experienced of sailors would be tested by the mental and physical stamina required to achieve a record of this magnitude. The fact that Mike achieved it at such a young age is a testament to his courage and unparalleled sense of adventure." Oz Jesse Martin who'd completed the world voyage aged 18 years 104 days held the record previously but Mike has achieved the feat at the age of 17 years and 164 days.

Mike was ecstatic after setting the record.

He said: "I've made it, I've made my dream come true and it feels amazing. A big big thanks to my dad, mum, all the sponsors and every one who has helped me along the way. I can't believe that the Royal Navy has sent HMS Mersey and a helicopter to witness my crossing the line. I feel very honoured."

His father, Peter, said: "Mike is a very special son, he has done incredibly well. He has shown that with determination, you can succeed even in the most adverse circumstances.

"He has shown the world that he is an extraordinary young man and an inspiration to us all." (ANI)