“My mum is breaking the world record!” A proud boy welcomes his mother in the record-breaking team Wavebreakers at Nelson’s Dockyard in the World’s Toughest Row Monday.

In an historic triumph, three formidable lady rowers have shattered the world record for a ladies trio. Set in 2021 by team  “ We are Extraordinary,” the record stood at an impressive 42 days, 7 hours, 17 minutes.

The truly extraordinary ladies of Wavebreakers  conquered the formidable Atlantic Ocean in only 40 days, 10 hours, 51 minutes! “We didn’t set out to break the world record…..it’s just the cherry on the cake” they modestly proclaimed.

Skipper Bobbie, “a phenomenal skipper” said the crew, snack-pack Queen Hetty and Navigator and super mum Katherine stepped ashore on shaky legs to hugs and kisses, a cheering crowd and a much dreamed-of Pina colada!

The world’s Toughest Row, also known as the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge, stands as a pinnacle of endurance and maritime adventure, captivating the spirit of exploration and pushing participants to their limits. This gruelling transatlantic race spans approximately 3,000 miles from the Canary Islands to the Caribbean.

FREE USE: JANUARY 22nd 2024: BRITISH TEAM WAVEBREAKERS ARRIVED INTO ENGLISH HARBOUR THIS AFTERNOON, SETTING A NEW WORLD RECORD FOR THE FASTEST FEMALE TRIO, COMPLETING THE WORLD’S TOUGHEST ROW – ATLANTIC 2023.The trio, Bobbie Mellor, Hatty Carder and Katherine Antrobus completed the 3,000-mile rowing race in 40 days, 10 hours and 51 minutes. They are the 10th boat to cross the finish line. Credit: World’s Toughest Row
FREE USE: JANUARY 22nd 2024: BRITISH TEAM WAVEBREAKERS ARRIVED INTO ENGLISH HARBOUR THIS AFTERNOON, SETTING A NEW WORLD RECORD FOR THE FASTEST FEMALE TRIO, COMPLETING THE WORLD’S TOUGHEST ROW – ATLANTIC 2023.The trio, Bobbie Mellor, Hatty Carder and Katherine Antrobus completed the 3,000-mile rowing race in 40 days, 10 hours and 51 minutes. They are the 10th boat to cross the finish line. Credit: World’s Toughest Row

Open to both solo and team entries, participants navigate the unpredictable and often treacherous waters of the Atlantic Ocean, facing relentless waves, challenging weather conditions, and the daunting task of rowing day and night. Beyond the physical demands, the race embodies the essence of camaraderie, self-discovery, and the indomitable human spirit. Each edition of the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge weaves tales of resilience and extraordinary feats that resonate with both participants and spectators, making it an iconic event in the realm of ocean racing.

This year’s fleet faced unusual weather, making a challenge of endurance and determination just that bit harder!  More people have climbed Everest than have rowed an ocean.

https://www.facebook.com/worldstoughestrow/videos/408249828226918/

Less than 300 of those rowers are women, but women in endurance sports such as this are carving an inspiring path in athletic achievement.  Antigua’s own Island girls rowed the Atlantic and Pacific, Junella King is sailing around the world in the Ocean Globe.  These formidable athletes showcase not only physical prowess but also mental resilience.

They navigate the challenges of relentless waves and adverse weather conditions, proving that gender is no obstacle to conquering the world’s toughest  challenges. Their participation in events like the World’s Toughest Row not only underscores their physical capabilities but also serves as a powerful testament to a landscape of inclusivity and recognition.

One of Katherine Antrobus’ ambitions was  “ to inspire my three young children is also a huge factor in my motivation to make this crossing – so they can see that ordinary people can do extraordinary things if they really want to. Hard work, perseverance and passion get you far.” She succeeded; said her son “honestly yes, I want to row the Atlantic.”

Pushing the boundaries of endurance and determination, these women demonstrated unparalleled strength, courage, and teamwork on the open sea. As husband Graeme said “it’s hard not to be inspired.”