Aussie rower takes Atlantic record

After three years of preparation, Australia’s rowing world record holder, Andrew Abrahams, has completed the mighty Atlantic Ocean, in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge that commenced on December 4, 2013 from San Sebastian De La Gomera.

Andrew reached the finish line in English Harbour, Antigua after rowing 2801.6 nautical miles and surviving 58 days at sea. This will see him achieve his world record attempt of becoming the fastest Australian to row solo and unassisted across the Atlantic to raise $500,000 for disadvantaged children.

Amazingly, Andrew finished first in the Solo rowing category and seventh overall against other teams of two to four rowers. Andrew’s rowing connection also honours a family tradition. His fourth great grandfather, Abel Seaman Owen Cavanough rowed Governor Phillip to shore from the Flagship HMS Sirius and was the first man to set foot on Australian soil from the first fleet. It was without question that Andrew named his ocean race boat RV Owen Cavanough.

It’s no surprise that more people have been into space, or climbed Everest than have rowed the Atlantic. Hoping to cross the finish line in a world record time, Andrew was faced with severe sickness for over two weeks. He has also had to endure sleep deprivation, being turned over by 30ft waves, blisters, salt sores, sharks, dehydration, mental fatigue, weight loss, and a serious leg injury. No wonder the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge is known as one of the toughest races on earth.

With 16 crews starting the race and only 12 crew set to finish, it takes a certain kind of person to keep going when faced with these challenges and Andrew has taken it in all in his stride.

“It’s great to hear the other teams are home and I can’t wait it to be my turn to row across the finish line for my charities and Australia,” he said.

Andrew is the co-founder of the Townsville to Cairns bike ride, which has raised $4.1 million for the Children’s Cancer Institute, and is the World Record Holder for being the fastest person in the world to row 1 million meters on a concept 2 rowing machine. 

All proceeds raised will go directly to the charities supported by Lions including the Children’s Mobility Foundation, the Childhood Cancer Research Foundation, ALDAF and Couee Community. These much needed funds will buy wheelchairs and aids for the children, making a huge difference to their daily lives.

Follow Andrew’s updates his website www.adventure4acure.com.