The news that a 16 year old girl was missing in the Indian Ocean while attempting to sail solo around the world made me a little angry. (She has been found to be safe)
Recently a 13 year old climbed Everest.
I'm sorry. What is wrong with these parents? These kids just aren't old enough to make these kinds of decisions for themselves.
I resect their abilities and applaud the dedication they show in rising to the levels that they have.
That said, these are dangerous treks with often fatal outcomes for many who undertake them. A child who isn't even old enough to consent to a legal contract, for good reason, is not capable of making a decision to engage in life threatening activities.
Again I respect and admire the spirit of these kids but I condemn the parents for allowing the kids to seek out these world record feats and face the most extreme adversity that this planet has to offer. Mother Nature will not spare them just because they are kids.
What do you think?