Curb the enthusiasm for records

by Craig Leweck, Scuttlebutt Sailing News
The headline from the Antigua Observer stated, “Carrack Jones’ historic sailing triumph confirmed: A new World Record set”

Only problem is that no world record was set, at least not the kind that meets necessary standards. I mean, the other night I slept for more than six hours… it felt like a world record to me.

Only the World Sailing Speed Record Council can designate World Records, and they don’t accept every person’s idea of a record, and they were not involved in this adventure:

From the story:
“In an awe-inspiring display of determination and maritime skill, 14-year-old Carrack Jones has officially set a new world record by sailing solo and unassisted from Antigua to St Maarten in an Optimist boat, a small, single-handed dinghy, taking approximately 30 hours to complete the challenge. The record, confirmed by the Antigua Yacht Club and the Sint Maarten Yacht Club, marks the longest distance sailed in an Optimist boat, covering an impressive 100 nautical miles.”

I take nothing away from Carrack, in fact I am thrilled someone his age is heading offshore rather than doing endless windward-leeward races. And I hope other kids will take on the challenge and try to beat his time. But please, just call it something else because it’s not a world record.