Two Scottish brothers have made their names on the seas by breaking the record for rowing across Pacific Ocean, completing the long and exhausting journey in record times and with extremely harsh circumstances.
The Record-Breaking Feat
Ewan as well as Jamie MacLeod, from the Isle of Skye, rowed almost 2800 nautical miles between San Francisco, California, up to Honolulu, Hawaii, in only 29 days seven hours, and fifteen minutes–beating the previous record by nearly 4 days. Their custom-built ocean rower called Caledonia Spirit, took them on a journey of pounding waves, sweltering sun and restless night.
“This was the hardest thing we’ve ever done in our lives,” stated Jamie on arrival in Waikiki Harbor, where they were welcomed by cheering crowds and rowers. “We wanted to prove that with resilience and teamwork, no ocean is too vast.”
A Journey of Endurance
The two brothers had to contend with 40-foot waves of 40 feet and blisters, as well as dehydration as well as near-constant fatigue. They worked in 2 hour shifts during the day and at night barely getting 4 hours of rest in a row. A storm was threatening to sink the vessel and force them to depend on their sea anchor and unwavering determination to keep the boat in the water.
In spite of the dangers the team’s spirits were high. Ewan said:
“There there were some nights that appeared as if the sea wanted to take us in. Every sunrise, however, reminds us of why we were on the beach.”
Purpose Beyond the Record
The MacLeods have dedicated their trip to raising funds and awareness to support the conservation of oceans and conservation, by working with various marine organizations. The journey already has raised the sum of PS500,000 in efforts to fight plastic pollution throughout the Pacific.
Global Recognition
Experts in rowing and adventure sports all over the world have recognized this feat as a milestone achievement in endurance sports of the present. Ocean Rowing Society Ocean Rowing Society confirmed the record just hours after the team’s arrival.
What’s Next for the Brothers?
The MacLeods have been working on their recovery efforts, both brothers admitted they’re still dealing with the toughest obstacles. “We’ll rest for now,” Ewan stated smiled, “but adventure runs in our veins. The Atlantic could be next.“
