The Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge

The Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge is the world’s toughest rowing race to date. Rumor is that the number of people who have completed this 3,000-mile row is lesser than the number of astronauts who have travelled to space. Another fun fact is that more people have climbed the Everest, rather than rowing an ocean. This arduous rowing challenge is held every year at the start of December.

The last race begun on 12 December 2019, and 30 teams travelled through the legendary route: San Sebastian (La Gomera), Canary Islands, Spain, Nelson’s Dockyard, English Harbour, Antigua, and Barbuda. The challenge is open to participants from all over the world, and the takeaway is a unique life changing experience. In addition, you get to contribute to charity and do some good to the world. You may enter the challenge on your own or use some company (1 to 5 team members are allowed).

Rowing across the Atlantic sounds intriguing, but the journey is far from easy. Participants are not allowed to take any tools, food, or water on the boat. On average, it takes 45 to 90 days for completing the course. The world record was 32 days, set by Team Hallin in 2011. The provided boats are facilitated with rudimentary necessities, but the comfort levels are on the minimum. There are always two designated officers nearby for support in order to prevent any wrongful death. Nonetheless, survival during this long period is in your own hands.

Sustainable management of resources is the key, as nothing comes in ample supply in the middle of the ocean. High waves and storms can really get you questioning your life choices. Are you really up for spending over a month on moving water, far away from technology and basic sanitation? However, this race is a great excuse to get fit and healthy. Rowing for 3,000 miles is an excellent source of cardio that will burn fat, build up lean muscle, and make you stronger. Each rower from past races has lost around 12 kilos of weight by the end of the journey.

2019’s Solo Rowers:

• Dewey Fankhauser from Austria
• Jim Phelen from UK
• Carl Plasschaert from Belgium
• Markus Beale from UK
• John Dempster from South Africa
• John Davidson from Scotland
• Gabi Schenkel from Switzerland

The Pairs:

• Max Thorpe & Dave Spelman from UK
• Paul Hopkins & Phil Pugh from UK
• Florian Ramp & Dominic Schaub from Switzerland
• Sara Brewer & Ann Prestidge from UK
• Damien Van Durme & Bernard Van Durme from Belgium
• Chris Nichol & James Tordoff from UK
• Anna Mclean and Cameron Mclean from UK/USA

The Trios:

• Charlie Medwin, Chris Slack, and Lewis Matthews from UK
• Ewan Maclean, James Maclean & Lachlan Maclean from UK
• Martin Beaumont, Guy Dresser & Hamish Miller from UK
• Mo O’brien, Bird Watts & Claire Allinson from UK

Would you consider signing up for the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge? It is an amazing manifesto for self-discovery, bonding, and forming new friendships. On the other hand, it is best to fantasize from the comfort of your home if you are one to get seasick.