'Solo Yachtgirl' lost from records
When Nicolette Milnes Walker (28) arrived in Newport Rhode Island on July 26, 1971, she was greeted with foghorns, a nautical escort, flashing lights. There was even a clap of thunder! The Mayor came out in his motorboat to meet her and offered her the Freedom of the City; her parents were waiting, the Navy was there – and so was the Press. As she stepped onto the pontoon in her freshly-donned mini-dress, there were cameras and a microphone as well as hugs and greetings. ‘I was surrounded by friendly and enthusiastic people, all asking questions. I replied as best I could, which was not very well (under the circumstances) for I was too excited to think clearly. […] Newport Daily News 27.7.71 Nicolette had just sailed across the Atlantic from Milford Haven, alone and without stopping in her 30’ sloop, Aziz . This was a female first, as she had planned it to be. When asked why, she said it was ‘for fun’. The celebrations were fun as well. ‘That evening I was feeling so fit and ha...