University honours record yachtswoman

"Never before had I seen anyone with such natural talent."

Top yachtswoman Emma Richards has been honoured by her former university for her bravery, devotion and achievements in the world of competitive sailing.

The 28-year-old, from Hamble, Hampshire, was the first woman and youngest person to complete the Around Alone challenge, the world's longest global yacht race.

Miss Richards, who completed a degree in sports medicine at the University of Glasgow in 1996, was awarded the Young Alumnus of the Year accolade by her former professors on Tuesday.

Her sailing career soared into the limelight last year, when, after setting off from New York, she spent nearly 132 days on her boat Pindar to single-handedly sail 29,000 miles around the world.

On 4 May 2003, Miss Richards sailed into Newport, Rhode Island, ending her epic voyage and securing fourth place in the race.

'Sixth sense'

Veteran yachtswoman, Tracy Edwards MBE, said of Emma: "Never before had I seen anyone with such natural talent.

"This sort of ability cannot be taught.

"It's almost a sixth sense that allows someone to feel, see and sense precisely the best line to steer for maximum speed.

"Although I revelled in Emma's genius, deep down I felt a pang of sadness.

"I had sailed for half a lifetime, but I would never be as good as this girl."

Sir Graeme Davies, Glasgow University Principal Professor, said: "Emma has more than earned the title of Young Alumnus of the Year and she has set a very high standard for future young graduates to rival."