Royal Watch News
Prince William welcomes old friend after Atlantic crossing
Oct 4, 2005, 12:35 GMT
Oliver Hicks, an old friend of Britain's Prince William, finished a gruelling solo voyage across the Atlantic on Saturday (01.10.05) - and the young prince was there to help him celebrate.
The 23-year-old royal and and friends cheered as Oliver, 23, became the youngest person ever to row alone from America to Britain.
The brave sailor made the 124-day trip in a boat equipped with satellite telephone, watertight cabins and a small gas stove.
Oliver explained that he met former Eton pupil William, who was keeping a low-profile at the celebrations, several years ago through a close pal. He said: "One of my best friends was at Eton. He is a great friend of Willy's - we had holidays together, things like that."
The royal appearance was a surprise to everyone but Oliver himself. He told reporters: "He said he would try to come but because you guys were here, I thought he might not."
As part of his effort, the record-setting seaman is raising money for the Hope and Homes charity, which helps youngsters made homeless by war or disaster.
Copyright 2005 BANG Media International
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