Ocean Reflections
By Jess Rowe
A full year has passed since the exhilarating moment when my crew and I crossed the finish line of the World's Toughest Row in 2022, completing the daunting 42-day journey across the Atlantic. The memory of our arrival in English Harbour, Antigua on January 23, 2023, is still as vivid and gratifying as if it unfolded just yesterday. Reflecting on this remarkable achievement, the overwhelming pride from conquering what stands as the most significant challenge in my life persists in my memories.
Recently, as I tuned into live YouTube streaming to watch teams from the 2023 race rowing into Antigua, a strong desire to return to the ocean was reignited within me, and I will be returning soon to the ocean. The nostalgia brought back the last day of our crossing, where we frantically attempted to wash our hair with the remaining water to avoid appearing completely untamed. At the same time, we kept three crew on the oars, following a warning from the race safety officer, Ian Couch, who informed us that two teams were closing in and might overtake us just before the finish line! Fortunately, we managed to cross the finish line just 20 minutes ahead of the male trio, the Arabian Ocean Rowing team, who, in turn, finished just before the mixed four, In Our Element.
In the closing moments of the adventure, reflections on my voyage across the Atlantic occupied my thoughts. I realised this wild adventure, with all the time, struggles to even start, and cheers from my friends and family, was about to wrap up. As much as I was excited to see everyone waiting to greet us in English Harbour, watching those numbers on our deck repeater go down meant the adventure was going to end very soon.
Atlantic Campaigns truly goes above and beyond to host an incredible welcome celebration for us rowers. The organisation is impeccable, beginning with the initial satellite phone call from Ian Couch, the media boat featuring Charlotte's live reporting, Penny capturing moments with her camera, and Kyle enthusiastically cheering us on. The spectacle continues with the captivating sight of Ian signalling with flares from the fort. Factor in the heartwarming reception from friends and family, and the seamless navigation into Nelson's Dockyard, where Race CEO Carsten awaits with a microphone, ready to grill us with some on-stage questions. It's so well-coordinated from start to finish.
Many people wondered what scared me the most about rowing the Atlantic, and for me, it wasn't the fear of capsizing or swimming in the ocean—it was standing on stage in front of the crowd at the very end! Stepping into the limelight was a real stretch for someone like me, who's more on the introverted side and not too keen on being the centre of attention. Words didn't flow easily on stage, which might explain why I'm leaning towards writing a book instead!
A standout moment during our crossing was encountering a massive pod of fin whales. It was incredible to witness their sheer numbers as they surfed the waves alongside us, diving under the boat. The display continued as more and more whales swam past, appearing on the crests of the waves before us. We were incredibly close to these amazing mammals, showcasing the beauty of ocean rowing and the intimate connection with the wildlife that surrounds you.
Another standout moment for me was the day we successfully hooked a fish. Throughout most of our journey, the surface was filled with sargassum, a type of seaweed. Because of this, we refrained from deploying the fishing line frequently, as it would get tangled with the seaweed, acting as a drag and slowing us down. In hindsight, having a gaff and a chopping board would have been a smart move, but I guess none of us anticipated actually catching a fish! With no hesitation, Daisy reached out and brought the fish on board, leaving us with a mahi-mahi and enough sashimi to satisfy our hunger for the first time on the trip!
The individuals you encounter during wild adventures like this become lifelong friends, and I consider myself incredibly fortunate. I had the chance to witness the arrival of most of the rowers in Antigua who’d arrived after us, as I had secured temporary work on a couple of sailing yachts.
