Who is Kay Cottee?
Kay Cottee is an Australian sailor who, in 1988, became the first woman to sail solo, nonstop and unassisted around the world. Her voyage on the yacht Blackmores First Lady took 189 days.
Cottee was born in Sydney in 1954 and grew up in a sailing family. She worked in the boating industry and saved for years to fund her round-the-world attempt.
She set out from Sydney in November 1987 aboard the 11-metre yacht Blackmores First Lady. Her route took her around the world's great capes, including Cape Horn and the Cape of Good Hope.
A historic voyage
During the trip, Cottee faced severe storms, including a moment when her boat was knocked down and she was washed overboard while attached to her safety line.
She returned to Sydney Harbour on 5 June 1988, during Australia's bicentennial year, to a huge welcome from spectator boats and crowds on the foreshore.
Cottee was named Australian of the Year in 1988. She later wrote a book about her journey, First Lady, and became a motivational speaker. Her achievement inspired many other sailors, including Jessica Watson.
Did You Know?
Blackmores First Lady is displayed at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney.