By Samuel Peters
Forty-three teams are currently battling 3,000 miles of hot, fierce, and diverse Atlantic Ocean in the World’s Toughest Row, racing from the volcanic shores of San Sebastian de La Gomera, Spain to paradise in Nelson’s Dockyard, Antigua. All share the same objective—to take on the unique experience of crossing an ocean in a rowing boat.
Swiss four-man team “44 West” is dominating the race across all categories, having covered 2,408 nautical miles with just 269 nautical miles remaining. Their estimated time of arrival at English Harbour/Nelson’s Dockyard is Wednesday, January 14th, making them the first team expected to reach Antiguan shores. Fellow Swiss crew “Kiwi Fondue” sits in second position overall with 364 nautical miles left to go and an estimated arrival of January 16th, while South Africa’s “Ocean Mavericks” holds third place with 464 nautical miles remaining and a January 17th arrival target.
In the trios category, “Southsea Scullers” leads with 616 nautical miles remaining and a January 20th estimated arrival, currently sitting fifth overall. The mixed crew “Call to Earth” (two females, one male) is in third place among trios and 16th overall, with 948 nautical miles left to go and an expected arrival of January 28th. The pairs division is led by Swiss duo “Stelantic” in sixth position overall with 675 nautical miles remaining, targeting January 21st. UK team “Gone Fishin” follows in eighth overall position, while the all-female UK crew “Atlantic Highway” sits third among pairs with an estimated January 24th arrival.
The solo category showcases ultimate endurance, with “Jasper” leading the division in 15th position overall with 925 nautical miles remaining and a January 27th target. “Mad Atlantic” has 982 nautical miles left to go with an estimated January 29th arrival, while UK rower “Aire Wave” brings up the rear with 1,053 nautical miles remaining and a January 31st expected finish. The race tests extraordinary human endurance as rowers battle sleep deprivation, extreme weather conditions, equipment failures, and the mental challenge of weeks alone at sea, all while crossing an ocean under their own power, one row at a time.
Locals and visitors are encouraged to head to English Harbour/Nelson’s Dockyard on Wednesday to witness the arrival of “44 West” and celebrate their extraordinary achievement in completing one of the world’s toughest endurance challenges.
