ELLEN MacArthur last night secured her place in history.
The 28-year-old became the fastest solo sailor to circumnavigate the earth at 10.29pm last night.
The Cowes yachtswoman spent 71 days, 14 hours, 18 minutes and 33 seconds alone at sea, covering more than 27,000 miles.
"I'm elated, I'm absolutely drained,'' she said after crossing the finish line. "It's been a very tough trip.''
A triumphant Ellen is now sailing across the Channel to a hero's welcome at the Cornish port of Falmouth later today.
Her achievement is being hailed among the best in British sporting history.
There are now calls for her to become a Dame in the Queen's Birthday Honours this year.
The Queen, Prince Charles and Prime Minister Tony Blair have already sent their congratulations.
TO READ MORE ON ELLEN MACARTHUR'S RECORD-BREAKING FEAT SEE OUR DEDICATED SAILING WEBSITE 'SAILSOLENT' AT: www.sailsolent.co.uk OR CLICK 'SAILING' IN THE 'SPORT' SECTION.
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