The third week of the World’s Toughest Row, organized by Atlantic Campaigns, has seen crews making significant progress while celebrating the New Year in the Atlantic Ocean. Under favorable conditions, including a following wind and manageable waves, rowers are navigating the challenging 3,000-mile course from San Sebastian de La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour, Antigua & Barbuda.
Among the participants are two rowers from Devon: Clare O’Reilly from Wembury, part of the trio team ‘Row with the Flow,’ and Jess Smiles from Saunton, who is rowing in a pair named ‘Atlantic Highway,’ inspired by the coastal route in North Devon. As of now, the Swiss crew ‘44 West’ leads the race, having covered over 1,800 nautical miles. The ‘Atlantic Highway’ team is currently in 12th place, with more than 1,400 nautical miles completed, placing them first in the women’s class and third overall in pairs. ‘Row with the Flow’ ranks 18th, having rowed over 1,200 nautical miles, and is second in the women’s category and fourth in trios.
As crews navigate this demanding race, they have taken the opportunity to perform necessary hull cleanings. This crucial task involves scraping away marine growth to enhance their speed, all while maintaining safety protocols, including a watch for sharks.
A significant moment occurred this week when Team ‘Call to Earth’ made an unexpected rescue. While rowing across the vast Atlantic, they discovered a turtle entangled in a drifting fishing net. This incident highlights the ongoing issue of plastic pollution and abandoned fishing gear in the ocean. The team’s successful intervention not only saved the turtle but also raised awareness about the environmental challenges facing marine life.
Life on the ocean is not solely defined by the mantra “ROW · EAT · SLEEP · REPEAT.” After approximately two hours of rowing, participants refuel to sustain their energy levels. Each rower burns between 4,000-7,000 calories daily, consuming high-calorie meals and snacks, including chocolate and nuts, which they might typically avoid.
In addition to rowing and eating, crews engage in various activities such as sending updates via Starlink, communicating with safety officers, and even dealing with personal care—ranging from treating blisters to washing clothes. The journey is also punctuated by breathtaking experiences, including sunrises, sunsets, and encounters with incredible wildlife. Rowers frequently spot dolphins, whales, and various fish, including the ever-enthusiastic flying fish, which often leap aboard.
A total of 43 ocean rowing boats with 114 rowers representing 20 nations departed from San Sebastian de La Gomera on December 14, 2025. The race format includes 10 solos, 11 pairs, 6 trios, and 16 fours, all competing in this unsupported challenge across the Atlantic.
As the race continues, the camaraderie and resilience of the crews shine brightly, showcasing the human spirit’s determination against the odds. Each stroke offers a blend of challenge and beauty, reminding participants and spectators alike of the ocean’s vastness and the adventures it holds.
