Russian Balloonist Claims New Round the World Record

An official says a Russian balloonist has claimed a new 11-day round the world record.

Support crew member Steve Griffin says Fedor Konyukhov's balloon on Saturday passed directly over the airfield at the Australian town of Northam where he began his journey on July 12.

American Steve Fossett also started from Northam to set a record of 13 days and eight hours for his 33,000-kilometer (21,000-mile) journey in 2002.

Konyukhov has taken roughly 11 days and six hours.

The Swiss-based World Air Sports Federation did not immediately respond to a request for confirmation of the new record.

Konyukhov is expected to land later Saturday.

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