Watson's American competitor forced into pit stop

by ABC News

An American sailor has ended her non-stop attempt to become the youngest person to sail solo around the world.

On her website, Abby Sunderland says she will pull her sailboat into Cape Town for repairs, but hopes to continue her trip.

Sunderland was five months younger than 16-year-old Queensland sailor Jessica Watson, who could set a new record in weeks.

Watson's agent Andrew Fraser says keeping hold of the record was not their primary concern.

"We're not too worried about what other people are doing, or the record, it was just a case of getting Jess back safely," he said.

"I think when the record stands, I just think it will take a long time to beat it, but at this stage we're just focusing on getting her back safely."

abc.net.au