2009 Pink Lady, McIntyre Adventure

15 year old Jessica Watson had a dream. She asked Don for a copy of his BOC challenge documentary to watch. They became firm friends and he believed she could do it. He provided the boat, the gear and a manager to start the ball rolling! WHY? In his own words here is the reason..... Adventure is a good thing and has ruled my life from day one. In fact, if you had to describe the meaning of life, well, it’s an ADVENTURE!..So what is an adventure? - “Any activity with an unknown outcome”.
While I have often supported and promoted young adventurers when I can (including Jesse Martin in “Lionheart” who inspired Jessica), when I turned 50, I decided to make it a direction for the second half of my life. Adventure makes good people!
Jessica called me one day and told her story. She was 15, ambitious, determined with a big dream. I listened. We spoke for 30 minutes and agreed to stay in touch. I sent her my BOC KNOCKDOWN video. I told her she needed a boat no matter how big the dream. Without that, no one would care.
Six months older and wiser she still had no boat. We spoke often and she listened. It was going nowhere. She and her dream impressed me.
In 1995 I lived for a year in isolation with my wife in a 2.4m x 3.6m box chained to rocks in Antarctica. We produced a documentary - Two Below Zero. Before that a major sponsor agreed to back us. Just a formality for the seven board members to sign off. At that board meeting, one disagreed and in 20 minutes convinced six more we may die! The sponsorship was cancelled.
In January 2009 I was on an expedition in Antarctica. It was clear to me that if Jessica did not get a boat now, it could not happen. Should I get her one? But then I thought, ‘what if she dies?’. Instantly I remembered that boardroom decision.
At that moment, with tears in my eyes, I decided to buy her an S&S 34. I would underwrite the cost of all the equipment to make sure she had enough to be safe, launch her first press conference announcing the dream and the inevitable ‘day after reaction’, then find her a manager. At that point I had never actually met Jessica. It had been a long, warm, cyber relationship. I didn’t tell her my decision.
One month later in Hobart we met for the first time for an hour between her flights to and from yachts gaining sailing experience. It was a poignant meeting. She made a strong impression. I told her I will buy the boat. She said ‘wow!’. I flew to her parents to explain what this meant. The risks, reward, the good, the bad and the reality of life, death and living well. Above all I explained what I thought of Jessica and why. She could do it. They agreed! I bought a boat.
I gave Jessica the keys with a long list of risk mitigating conditions and one strong word of advice. SHE must make all the final decisions. Not me, not any mentor, or adviser. I suggested a North Pacific route before Cape Horn to settle her and the boat. I placed a full page advertisement seeking volunteers to help a 15 year old girl refit her boat to follow a solo dream. People arrived with a smile.
My decision to then sit in the background and not even appear for her Sydney send off was a personal one of acknowledging this as her dream. Not mine. She knew I was there whenever needed. I would have loved to be in Sydney to welcome her home, but I was at sea 40 days in an open boat with nothing, suffering derivations on my TALISKER Bounty Boat Expedition. I was recreating the infamous Mutiny on the Bounty open boat voyage of survival for Capt. William Bligh.
Jessica rang me from Pink Lady just before she arrived. We laughed. What an amazing young lady she was and is! BRAVO JESS! What a ride and thanks for inspiring so many! It is a truly beautiful story. Yes I feel proud of her!
Keep the dream alive… Don!

[@itsonlymeok]

Who is on here after watching Netflix❤️❤️

[@TinCupChalice40]

What’s the movie called on Netflix? I’d love to see it. Thanks

[@itsonlymeok]

@Greg Butcher True spirit fantastic movie 👍

[@Laters3]

More to the point. I hope your also watching the GGR solo round the world yacht 💨⛵️💨. If not then use 100% need to. Best race in the world 🌎

[@OXANGIE]

Men😭

[@catmews]

I watched the movie two times in a row. Never did that before.

[@randyfarnsworth7825]

I’m American. This should have 500K likes. Sadly the world will watch Waffle House brawls, shoot outs, drug use and homeless. This is an extraordinary young women. She should be celebrated across the world.

[@aaliyahthurmond6329]

I am pretty sure back then the world did cheer her on

[@philippineshottesttiktokch1998]

Totally agree 💯

[@Sheepsvagina]

100% outstanding.

[@TinCupChalice40]

You said it perfectly!!

[@Mahalo_83]

Why? This was celebrated news 14 years ago and since her record was broken by Laura Dekker

[@dal8963]

I just learned she fell in love right after this adventure and was with that man for 10 years until 18 months ago when he died from a stroke she is now sailing to raise awareness for high blood pressure. So inspirational And tragic yet 10 years with someone you love she was able to experience.

[@mcintyreadventure]

Sad story indeed..Cam was a cool guy!! so check your blood pressure hey!! :)

[@catherinepatterson4720]

Excellent. A truly amazing person who followed her dream, planned and prepared and had a positive and helpful team around her to achieve such a goal when she was 16. I came across this after watching the recent movie about Jessica’s 210 day solo sailing trip around the world. An excellent movie. I have a deeper respect for what she went through ⛵

[@mcintyreadventure]

yes amazing story... :) thanks

[@catherinepatterson4720]

@@mcintyreadventure 🙂🇦🇺⛵🌏I agree. And for Don’s belief in Jessica and support. I didn’t realise this until I saw the movie. I’m currently listening to the audiobook version of Jessica’s solo trip where more detail is shared of Don’s input - a definite thumbs up 👍

[@pbgFOOTBALL13]

I’ve just watched the movie about her, makes someone think and rethink about what he’s doing with his life.

[@fortheloveofdiamond.5190]

Jessica I just want to say you're a phenomenal woman and God bless you. Your faith in yourself has inspired people all over the globe!!! You'll be remembered forever!

[@fishertwin]

I'm here after watching in Netflix. Inspiring story.❤

[@agnesderobillard9994]

She's wonderful 🥰

[@worldtrust17]

Inspiration level 10,000!

[@donmcintyre6037]

She sure it :) thanks.... Don

[@darlingtonnnamani7331]

Who else got here after seeing the movie "true spirit".

[@tuananhoi5661]

great person , I came here after watching Movies , great story and brave spirit .

[@mcintyreadventure]

glad you enjoyed it :)

[@blobsie1]

I was 12 when this happened I remember this well was amazing to see this accomplishment

[@garyfarrell7961]

Great adventure for Jessica. Watched the movie six times. I remember when she did this and am now reading her book.

[@Laters3]

Question is are you watching the GGR YACHT RACE 2022/23.

[@amauryaracena]

Only sailors know how hard the open waters could be. My respects to Jessica Watson.

[@DeyMoldes]

I don't know if it's just me but the reporter/journalist in the movie "True Spirit" looks like him.

[@ameliacampbell2998]

Brave and Strong girl I applaud her bravery Strength and courage we need this mindset God Bless you 🙏👆👏🙌😘😘😘

[@Roger5R]

Completely inspired and touched by this. If we could all have the same courage for everything we want to achieve the world would be a different place.

[@jillw.2524]

I thank God she made it home.. achieving her dreams & being so BRAVE.I wanted to hug you when you were sad... I pray you gave thanks to GOD 1st... I Pray you now have an closer relationship with HIM.. Thats would be your greatest accomplishment & achievement 👏. Give God the glory & that boat became your angel of protection...thankful to all the praying persons that prayed for her. Congratulations babygirl ..proud of you.

[@Laters3]

Question is are you watching the GGR YACHT RACE 2022/23. Woman leading the race rite now. Racing a 36th boat solo none stop with only using equipment from 1968/69 crazy stuff. Look up on Facebook KZbin Instagram sound cloud plus the website. Amazing stuff. A place to dream and to turn it into Reality

[@sokeefe_forlife1311]

She started her amazing journey just a month before I was born :)

[@michaelscurr9046]

Love the boat setup.❤

[@Laters3]

Liar 🤥 you love the color really 😂. Just a joke mate. Belting boat

[@VK3CSJ]

Agree SaltyDog....it was a very special time for everyone concerned I only hope the motion film based on Jess's voyage carries all that we came to know about Jess and how her dream came to fruition with all the ups and down....this was a good report by 60 minutes, thanks Don for finding it and placing it up for all to see.... Clint Jeffrey - Melbourne Town

[@jjosephbravata]

It kills me that people feel that they can IMPOSE their opinion on someone else. If anyone wants to do something, who do you think you are to stop them? Why would a government feel that they have the power to tell people they cant do something AND why would you want a government like that?

[@MichaelAllhoff]

WOW. Congrats!

[@samanthacrowther7864]

Absolutely amazing lady. So brave and inspirational. Just watched the film 🎥 was amazing. So amazed by this lady

[@Laters3]

Question is are you watching the GGR YACHT RACE 2022/23. Woman leading the race rite now. Racing a 36th boat solo none stop with only using equipment from 1968/69 crazy stuff. Look up on Facebook KZbin Instagram sound cloud plus the website. Amazing stuff. A place to dream and to turn it into Reality

[@sheily747]

Muito corajosa... incrível

[@Sean-bp6xb]

Inspirational! Way to go girl! Watching from Ontario Canada 😊🎉❤

[@venyperezdepl8064]

Dios he terminado de ver la película en éste instante y terminé en un mar de 😢 que aventura tan impresionante y valentía la de ésta hermosa niña la verdad no sabía de ésta historia. Qué orgullo para su familia y su país 🙏👏👏 Dios la bendiga en abundancia 🙏 💕💕 💕 💕

[@mcintyreadventure]

THANKYOU!!! Don...........translation... God I finished watching the movie right now and I ended up in a sea of ​​😢 what an impressive adventure and courage of this beautiful girl, the truth was I didn't know about this story. What pride for her and her country 🙏👏👏 God bless her abundantly 🙏 💕

[@Laters3]

Look up Laura Decker she is one hell of a young woman. Jessica absolutely brilliant two crazy young girls with a dream

[@Laters3]

Question is are you watching the GGR YACHT RACE 2022/23.

[@hylminyiayu2088]

Conrmgrat jess you are my inspiration❤

[@carlsails58]

Salute. Respect! Don is sailings greatest promoter of all time!

[@donmcintyre6037]

Thanks fo you kind wods :) ..adventue is a good thing fo people :) all the best...Don

[@Laters3]

Question is are you watching the GGR YACHT RACE 2022/23.

[@carlsails58]

@@Laters3 yep. All I can on fb, Twitter, Instagram, and KZbin. Just a poboy from SE USA and a weekly lake sailor.

[@carlsails58]

@@Laters3 did not realize this was from 2years ago tho! I try to leave a little comment on KZbin down below every one I view.

[@Laters3]

@@carlsails58 what’s a poboy like haha sound gay as. Haha 😂 joke mate. Yes 2 years didn’t think I’d get a response so fast if ever at all brother. The USA 🇺🇸 is love to come over in my boat one day then walk across America 🇺🇸 to. Beautiful country tho Iv never been before but have many a friends living there. And respect ✊🏻 to you brother from the rainy Isle of Man 🇮🇲

[@rimasmeleshyus6545]

Great video, many thanks super cool video I really enjoyed extraordinary. Huge adventure

[@donmcintyre6037]

Yes it was a great trip all the best....Don

[@عبودبيدرياحمد]

انا من العراق ومعجب بشخصية جيسيكا واتسون اصغر واروع بحارة تجاوزت العديد من المشاق والمحن في رحلتها التي استمرت 210 يوم في البحار وقطعت اكثر من 44 الف كيلو متر .... انا من المعجبين بشخصيتها القوية ولقد شاهدت الفيلم السينمائي الذي انتج لها واسمه true spirit

[@JRETCH0218]

danger is real but fear is a choice.... damn big respect to you jess i really thought its just a fckng movie

[@mariopinto4273]

Valiente 💗

[@Ancientneutrality]

My left ear enjoyed this video my right ear felt left out.

[@Annye_world]

Eu não teria voragem de ir m La!!!!!,eu sou muito sua fã!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! #você è corajosa!!!

[@harborhobo]

Thank you for all that you did for Jessica to make it possible for her to live her dream, Don……Cheers from Seattle, WA, USA…..SaltyDog

[@Laters3]

And he still doing this today

[@Laters3]

Question is are you watching the GGR YACHT RACE 2022/23. Woman leading the race rite now. Racing a 36th boat solo none stop with only using equipment from 1968/69 crazy stuff. Look up on Facebook KZbin Instagram sound cloud plus the website. Amazing stuff. A place to dream and to turn it into Reality

[@Annye_world]

#vocêécorajosa!!!

[@earth_lover1715]

Amazing. But on the map the presenter shows that she was to sail into the Horn of Africa , however her path on the map did not at all indicate that she was going to the top, only passing Southern Africa.

[@maryannmacaraeg1729]

a true sigma🤟

[@iMatti00]

🌊⛵️ ~ Horrible decision by the parents. According to the Netflix movie she didn’t set her alarms more than once, and that shows she’s not mature enough. It reminds me of my sister who is an absolute airhead. And I also noticed in the movie during the storm she was not wearing any life preservers or submersion suit. If she didn’t have that on then it is gross negligence, it is the highest form of immaturity there is. So I don’t know if it was accurately portrayed in the movie or not, if it was then shame on her, if it wasn’t accurate then shame on the movie. That’s an easy detail to include.

[@RichMcc]

'In the movie' yeah cause that was factual ... yet the live feeds ect all show diffrent

[@iMatti00]

@@RichMcc- If that is true, that obviously changes things.

[@andrewthompson5586]

The blonde bat can beat it. No tax dollars spent, no way you can limit.

[@jenniferkaczmarek2383]

Of course that ladies name is Karen 🙄🙄😂😂😂😂

[@lonnyfuller7830]

If we stifle our childrens dreams and aspirations then we stifle our society.

[@mcintyreadventure]

True :)

[@daktarioskarvannederhosen2568]

where is the cutoff point, if anywhere? if she were 13yrs old would it be ok? 10yrs old?

[@Goldengloberace]

@@daktarioskarvannederhosen2568 you miss the point..it is NEVER the age..it is the person :) even in pink :)..she just happend to be 15?

[@daktarioskarvannederhosen2568]

@@Goldengloberace so, then, and in concert with your statement, in principle/theoretically it would be acceptable to permit a 9yr old...

[@Ancientneutrality]

@@daktarioskarvannederhosen2568 a 9 year old wouldn’t be able to complete all the necessary hours of training. She completed over 25 certifications and completed 10,000 miles of sailing.

[@daktarioskarvannederhosen2568]

14min0sec '...can do it...' '...could get unlucky...'

[@aime5874]

Im here searching her name because of her movie

[@ScottysBackYardBBQ]

bigger balls then i have. no way i can sail off around the world. i be so scared.

[@anitaboodram1155]

God I pray

[@luciano76464]

Cmq. Non è l'unica...Andate a vedere i video di Laura Dekker se non sbaglio a 16 anni ha girato il mondo da sola in barca a vela 😉

[@JCGible]

🙂👍❤

[@svenvr4352]

Me!!!!!!!+!+

[@jillw.2524]

As a parent. That mom is coldhearted & narcissistic.... I wonder how much she played in pushing her out there such young age. The dad I feel your love for your child. I salute the dad.

[@kristensmith2918]

No, it was Jessica’s decision not the mums..

[@edgardogarcia8605]

I wonder how your parents raised you to came here to criticize a person you don't know nothing about

[@daktarioskarvannederhosen2568]

indubitably fascinating; however, very irresponsible of the parents (actually, i cannot decide: either it is irresponsible or it is not at all irresponsible)

[@Goldengloberace]

hahaha NOT! she was extremely capable :)

[@daktarioskarvannederhosen2568]

@@Goldengloberace i wouldn't allow my 16yr old to try it.

[@Ancientneutrality]

@@daktarioskarvannederhosen2568 you would willingly stand in the way of your child’s dream because of fear. That isn’t love that is possessiveness, greed, lacking in faith.

[@daktarioskarvannederhosen2568]

@@Ancientneutrality at which point, then, do you draw a line between letting your child pursue her dreams as opposed to protecting her for her own good (based on the commonly held belief that children are not mature enough to fully understand the possible ramifications of pursuing some of their desires in the moment)?

[@mcintyreadventure]

@@daktarioskarvannederhosen2568 DEPENDS ON THE CHILD :) THEY ARE ALL DIFFERENT ..BROVO TO JESSICAS.. :)

[@brittanytaz1282]

There should be more "Can't People" to stop this. My mother could swim fine,,,, as long as the water wasn't over her head. Sorry to say, she never saw Paris, her prewar dream never realized. Live life to the fullest. Better to burnout, than to rust.

[@MrJanipapillon]

CHAPEAU

[@barrybarry5803]

People need to butt out of other peoples business!!!

[@thomasdecarlo8543]

I will say this guy is the worst reporter / host to be doing this.

[@jessevillalin4966]

Did the part were the boat was under water really happen how can the boat be under the water that long