The World's Toughest Row - Atlantic

The atmosphere is electric as people help each other prepare for the challenge of the mighty Atlantic Ocean. Teams battle with sleep deprivation, salt sores, and physical extremes inflicted by the race. Rowers are left with their own thoughts, an expanse of the ocean and the job of getting the boat safely to the other side.

The inspiration for this challenge started when Angie’s cousin, Kevin, rowed across the Atlantic in 2020.  Angie and Greg watched the boats come into Antigua two years later.  Kevin had regrets about his previous crossing and wanted to do it again, they talked at length about what it would take, the level of commitment and what makes a good team.

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It really didn’t take long to conclude that this is just the type of challenge Greg wanted to achieve.

Greg has worked with The Matt Hampson Foundation for many years and they quickly decided that we would like to give a disabled person the opportunity of taking part in the challenge and are actively working with the foundation to find a suitable team mate.

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“The annual race begins in early December, with up to 30 teams participating from around the world. The race structure brings together an environment where teams from across the globe gather in the race village San Sebastian in La Gomera, Canary Islands. The atmosphere is electric as people help each other prepare for the challenge of the mighty Atlantic Ocean. All with the same objective – to take on the unique experience of crossing an ocean in a rowing boat.

The race offers different experiences to all involved. The challenge creates strong friendships and competitiveness gives way to the camaraderie that is required to complete the challenge. Upon finishing, rowers join a small community of friends that have shared the adventures of an ocean crossing. The mental and physical endurance will result in a life-changing achievement, that will never be forgotten.”

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