The Woodvale Challenge Atlantic Rowing Race; the World's Toughest Rowing Race. Up to 40 teams in identical rowing boats, pit their mental and physical endurance against each other and the might of the Atlantic Ocean, all with the same objective.
Departing from La Gomera, Canary Islands and finishing over a 2,500 nautical miles distance in Antigua, Richard Hume and Tom Barnes will push their physical and mental capabilities to the absolute limit to help raise funds for Ataxia UK.
From the sunsets and sunrises to the wildlife that will be encountered first hand - the race offers a constant battle of sleep deprivation, salt sores and physical extremes.
The Crossing
The race starts in December at the port of San Sebastian on the Canaries island of La Gomera and finishes approximately 2,500 miles away at Antigua, West Indies.
In between the two islands, the rowers face extreme weather, 50ft waves, sharks and oil tankers. Rowing alternately for two hours on and two hours off 24 hours a day will only add to the physical burden but is essential if Richard and Tom wish to win.
The team must be entirely self sufficient for the duration of the crossing, with all supplies, including food, being carried on board. Two support yachts will follow the fleet in case of emergencies but if any outside assistance is received from them or any other boat then the team are disqualified from the race.
The route takes advantage of the prevailing winds and currents and the timing of the race also avoids the hurricane season.
The Boat
Designed by Phil Morrison and capable of undertaking an Atlantic crossing accommodating up to four people with all their supplies, the boat has an impeccable racing predigree.
Built in 2003 by Justin Adkin and Jamie Roswell, the boat was first raced under the name Queensgate and still holds the current record for a 4 man crossing East to West of 36 days 59.30 minutes. On her second outing as Stella, the Atlantic 4 crew finished the race in 49 days, 14 hours and 21 minutes.
Richard and Tom took ownership of the boat in October 2008 from Rachel Smith and Lin Griesel, who under the name Barbara Ivy rowed to Antigua in 76 days 11 hours and 12 minutes. They were the first to capsize her in bad weather, and fingers crossed, the last!
Constructed from Lloyds approved marine plywood and GRP, the Boat is 24ft long and 6ft wide and weighs 300kg unloaded.
More Information
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Web: www.rowingtheatlantic.com
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