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Hero's return for Knox-Johnston | Hero's return for Knox-Johnston |
(10 minutes later) | |
Sailing legend Sir Robin Knox-Johnston has returned to UK shores after a second solo circumnavigation of the world, and vowed never to do it again. | |
The 68-year-old completed the Velux 5 Oceans, billed as sailing's ultimate solo challenge, on 4 May, finishing in 4th place in Bilbao on Saga Insurance. | The 68-year-old completed the Velux 5 Oceans, billed as sailing's ultimate solo challenge, on 4 May, finishing in 4th place in Bilbao on Saga Insurance. |
Sir Robin, the oldest competitor in the race, had a Royal Navy escort when he sailed up the Solent to Portsmouth. | |
He said: "I would not have missed it, but I will not do it solo again." | |
Cape Horn 'hell' | |
Sir Robin, from Ipplepen in Devon, made history in 1969 when he took 312 days to become the first person to sail solo non-stop around the world. | Sir Robin, from Ipplepen in Devon, made history in 1969 when he took 312 days to become the first person to sail solo non-stop around the world. |
Sir Robin said he was looking forward to a break from sailingAn 11-gun salute from Royal Yacht Squadron greeted him as he sailed past Cowes on the Isle of Wight on Saturday. | |
His daughter Sara and five grandchildren were among those who welcomed him home. | |
"I'm thoroughly glad I did it," he said as he cradled a well-earned bottle of Champagne. | |
"I'm fitter and it was mentally stimulating for me." | |
But he had been very scared rounding Cape Horn, notorious for the combination of strong winds and big swells. | |
He said: "That was the hardest part. | |
"It was pretty frightening and it was a hell of a physical job." | |
He added that he was now looking forward to a break from sailing. |