The Challenge

The World’s Toughest Row Atlantic Challenge brings together teams from all walks of life, united by the same objective - to take on the unique challenge of crossing an ocean in a rowing boat.

The atmosphere is electric as the teams help each other prepare for the challenge of the mighty Atlantic Ocean. The race creates strong friendships and competitiveness gives way to camaraderie as months of planning turn into reality at the start line in La Gomera.

At sea, the teams battle with sleep deprivation, salt sores and the physical extremes that the row inflicts. Rowers are left with their own thoughts, the vast expanse of the ocean and the job of getting the boat to safety on the other side. The race offers a different experience to all involved.

Upon finishing, rowers join a small community of friends that have shared the adventures of an ocean crossing. The mental and physical endurance results in a life-changing achievement that will never be forgotten.

In the 2020 race, 3 boats had their hulls holed by Blue Marlin - but all three boats went on to successfully complete their crossing.

Based on the number of days required to cross, the food for a solo rower weighs in excess of 65kg, a pair 50kg, a trio 45kg and 41kg for a four.

Each team will row in excess of 1.5 million oar strokes during a race.

Team Fortitude IV achieved the fastest 24 hours ever with 107.45 nautical miles covered.

Rowers will row for 2 hours, and sleep for 2 hours, constantly, 24 hours a day.

In an average year, more people summit Mt Everest than have EVER rowed an ocean.

Participants in the race have raised over €16 million for charities worldwide over the last six races.

At its deepest, the Atlantic Ocean is 8.5km / 5.28 miles deep.

The waves that the rowers experience can measure up to 20ft high.

There are two safety yachts tracking the teams as they cross the ocean. In the 2013 race, one yacht travelled a massive 9000nm!

Each rower is expected to use 800 sheets of toilet paper during their crossing.

The teams are supported 24/7 by two land-based Safety Officers.

In the 2016 race, solo rower Daryl Farmer arrived in Antigua after 96 days, rowing without a rudder to steer with for nearly 1200miles/40 days.

Each rower aims to consume 10 litres of water per day.

Rowers burn in excess of 5,000 calories per day.

There is no toilet on board – rowers use a bucket!

The average rower loses around 8kg during a crossing.

In the 2018 race, solo rower Kelda Wood (Row 2 Raise) was kept company by a whale for nearly 7 days.

A fully functioning water maker takes 30 minutes to make 20 litres of water.

RACE START DECEMBER 12TH 2024:

The Challenge

The Challenge

The World’s Toughest Row Atlantic Challenge brings together teams from all walks of life, united by the same objective - to take on the unique challenge of crossing an ocean in a rowing boat.

RACE START DECEMBER 12TH 2024