David Dicks facts for kids

David Griffiths Dicks, who has an OAM award, was born on 6 October 1978. He is an Australian sailor famous for sailing solo around the world.

David became the youngest person to sail non-stop and by himself around the world. In February 1996, when he was just 17 years old, he started his journey from Fremantle, Western Australia. He sailed in his family's 10-meter boat, a type called an S&S 34 sloop, which was named 'Seaflight'.

David's Amazing Journey Around the World

During his nine-month trip around the world, David faced many tough challenges. He experienced his boat being knocked over by waves many times. He also had to deal with really bad weather and equipment breaking down. On top of that, he even got food poisoning!

His journey was considered "assisted" because he accepted a small part (a bolt) to fix his boat's rig near the Falkland Islands. This meant his trip wasn't fully unassisted, as he got a little help.

David returned safely to Fremantle in November 1996. There was a huge celebration for him! People threw a ticker-tape parade, and he was even given the 'keys' to Perth City.

Awards and Records

In 1999, David was given the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM). This is a special award that recognizes his amazing achievement.

David held the record for the youngest person to sail solo (with a little help) around the world for 13 years. He held this record from 1996 until 2009. Some people still think he holds the unofficial record for the youngest solo non-stop assisted trip around the world.

In May 2010, another Australian sailor named Jessica Watson became the unofficial youngest person to complete an unassisted solo trip. However, her route didn't meet the minimum distance needed for a full world circumnavigation.

Another sailor, Jesse Martin, completed a solo non-stop unassisted trip in 1999. He was 24 days older than David Dicks was when David finished his own voyage.

See also

• Circumnavigation
• List of youth solo sailing circumnavigations