Hampton yachtsman James Bird has become the youngest British qualifier for the Mini Transat 2003 - a 4200 mile race across the Atlantic Ocean (writes DALE HARRY).

James, 19, will sail single handed against 72 competitors from La Rochelle in France to the shores of Salvador, Brazil, in a race that takes place once every two years.

James, who expects to be at sea for 40 days, qualified by completing 1000 competitive miles solo, and 1000 double handed - with crew member Charles Hardy in the space of 16 months.

"Qualifying for this race means everything to me," enthused James.

"There are eight transatlantic races and this is one of the toughest. There are more high-profile races, but this goes down as one of the most competitive as there are some really experienced racers out there, including the Olympic bronze medalist."

James finished his final round of qualifying in 13th place from a field of 40, in a race between the Antibes, in the south of France to Tunisia, a fortnight ago.

The young sailor is not daunted in what will be his longest single handed spell at sea. He added: "The quickest sailor will probably finish in around 36 days. I don't know how close I can get to that but I will aim to finish in the top 30 and maybe reach the finish within 40 days. But just to finish the race will be a great personnel achievement.

"One of the trickiest sections of the course will be at the Doldrums, along the equator. Conditions there are always unpredictable - one minute there could be a thunderstorm and the next minute, calm and sunny! That section will last for around four or five days and occurs at a key stage halfway through the course."

James, who was once knocked unconscious during a race, adds: "Although I am out there on my own, I fear nothing, because my preparation is always thorough."

Spending much of his time in Southampton, where he has quick access to the sea, James is intensely preparing his 21ft boat - named Atomik - for the race on September 7th.

"I won't be racing again between now and the Mini Transat, but I'll be getting things ready - repairing electronics, replacing old equipment, and double checking everything is in working order."

James hopes to compete as a professional and dedicate more time to the sport, but until then, he continues to work for a yacht equipment suppliers firm where he makes sails - in fact he is currently constructing new sails for his own boat ahead of the big race.

It is surprising to learn that someone so young and so talented, and with a great future ahead of him, has been unable to secure sponsorship.

"It would be great if I could be recognised for my achievements and given some financial help but nothing will stop me from succeeding in this sport," said James.

If you are able to sponsor James then call the Richmond & Twickenham Times sports desk on 020 8939 1537.