Lisa Clayton

Lisa Lyttelton, Dowager Viscountess Cobham (born about 1958 as Lisa Clayton) is the first British woman to sail single-handed and non-stop around the world.[1] She was educated in Birmingham at the Church of England School for Girls, Edgbaston, and the University of Birmingham.[2]

On 17 September 1994 Clayton set out to attempt two world records, namely "Fastest Sail Around the World by a Woman, Single-Handed Without Assistance" and "First British Woman to Sail Single-Handed and Non-Stop Around the World." She returned on 29 June 1995, after 285 days at sea.

On her thirty-eight foot yacht, called Spirit of Birmingham, Clayton survived the 31,000-mile (50,000 km) journey despite capsizing seven times. Her vessel was named after her home city and the university which contributed over £40,000 and expertise to make it possible for Clayton to realise her dream. On 1 October 1996, Clayton was recognized as an Honorary Freeman of the City of Birmingham.[3]

On 1 August 1997 she married the 11th Viscount Cobham, owner of Hagley Hall in Worcestershire. He died in 2006.[4]

References

  1. ↑ "British sailor Lisa Clayton". Star-News. 1995-06-30. Retrieved 2010-05-17.
  2. ↑ "His Lordship ties the knot with lady skipper". The Independent. Retrieved 17 January 2015.
  3. ↑ "Freedom Parades and Freedom of the City". Birmingham City Council. Retrieved 17 January 2015.
  4. ↑ "Obituary: Viscount Cobham". The Guardian. Retrieved 17 January 2015.