CHAMPAGNE corks popped as recordbreaking round-the-world yachtswoman Dee Caffari performed the official naming ceremony for rising sailing star Katie Miller’s yacht.

Some of the biggest names in sailing gathered at Ocean Village as Solent University student Katie unveiled her boat’s name, after new title sponsor, financial software company bluQube.

The 21-year-old will be the youngest female competitor to take part in the Original Single Handed Transatlantic Race (OSTAR) in May, a 3,000-mile singlehanded sprint from Plymouth to Boston.

Katie said: “bluQube has a history of sponsoring solo sailors and events including my first ever offshore solo race.

“It’s a privilege to be sponsored by a company with such enthusiasm and support for solo sailors.

She added: “To have Dee name bluQube was a real honour, especially since she has so recently finished the Vendée Globe, an event I am looking forward to competing in in 2016.”

bluQube CEO Simon Kearsley said: “We feel that Katie is a great fit with our own values because of her determination, dedication and pragmatic approach.

“We wish Katie all the best in the OSTAR and look forward to supporting and tracking her progress.”

Also at the ceremony, held at Royal Southampton Yacht Club, was Dame Ellen MacArthur, who spotted Katie when she worked for the Ellen MacArthur Trust taking children recovering from serious illnesses out sailing.