British Army team, Pacific One , which includes Ramsgate man Simon Farley, have achieved the extraordinary, completing the World’s Toughest Row – Pacific 2023 in a time of 35 days, 2 hours and 16 minutes.
The challenge involved four soldiers, one boat, 2800 miles, 4,000,000 strokes and 1,000,000 calories!
Former Chatham House lad Simon, who has been in the Army for 20 years, said: “It’s every emotion that you can possibly imagine, from one extreme to another. Incredible nights of stars that you wouldn’t believe to biblical rainstorms to 40ft swells to days of glassy calm.”
On July 17 at 6:46am local time, Simon Farley, Chris Barnes, Chris Bailey and Sam Morris set foot on the pristine shores of Hanalei, Kaua’i.
Confronting early adversities including sea sickness, sore hands, and daunting wind conditions, they demonstrated exceptional tenacity. The Pacific threw everything at them but they responded with resilience and grit.
Their military backgrounds not only crafted a deep sense of unity but also formed a camaraderie. This bond of brotherhood helped them navigate through the gruelling challenge, turning hardships into stories. They maintained a high morale with daily rituals and celebrating small victories, taking things one day at a time.
Their heroic effort was in aid of their charities, St Michael’s Hospice, Give Them a Sporting Chance & Young Minds.