Four adventurous women who first met virtually during the Covid lockdown are preparing for an epic challenge: racing 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean. They say life’s for living and they’re grabbing adventure by the oars.
The team initially bonded on Zoom during the first lockdown before finally meeting in person in July 2020 for a kayaking trip off the Dorset coast. “We couldn’t meet in real life, so we gelled online,” says Jen Cullom from Oxfordshire, who instigated the trip.
However, one major hurdle remains—Jen fears deep water. “Luckily, the kayaking was close to shore. Overcoming this fear is part of our mission,” adds Emily Woodason from London.
Rowing solo across an ocean is rarer than climbing Mount Everest. Not only do the women need to build their teamwork, but they also need to raise funds to purchase their eco-friendly boat. Their first public launch will be a fundraiser aimed at attracting supporters and sponsors.
To mark Valentine’s Day, the crew invites people across the UK to place a personal message or “heart” in their boat. “We’re pouring our hearts and souls into this, and want others to share their love and memories with us,” says Erin Bastian from Cornwall.
“It’s an incredibly romantic, unique present and a chance to honour loved ones. We’ll carry every supporter’s heart safely across the Atlantic to Antigua,” promises JP.
The four women, all in their thirties, represent ordinary dreamers taking on an extraordinary challenge with a goal to raise awareness for ocean protection. “We’re ordinary women on an extraordinary adventure—and we want your hearts with us,” they say.
The One Ocean Crew crowdfunder launches on February 1st, 2021, hosted by record-breaking yachtswoman Nikki Henderson. To add your heart or support the cause, visit www.crowdfunder.co.uk/one-ocean-crew.
Originally published by UKNIP.
