Ex-HMS Torbay sailors off on world's toughest rowing challenge
Crews in 3,000 mile race across Atlantic
They’re off. Thirty-eight ocean rowing boats with 98 ocean rowers representing 10 nations left San Sebastian de La Gomera on December 13 in the World’s Toughest Row organised by Atlantic Campaigns.
The 38 competing crews are made up of 11 solos, eight pairs, six trios, 12 fours and one five. The five boat crew of HMS Oardacious with the crew Rob Clarke, Daniel Seager, Mike Forrester, Ian Allen and Mathew Main are all Royal Navy submariners and they were the first crew away with other crews following at two minute intervals.
The crews were seen off by family and friends amid a cacophony of noise from hooters, klaxons, ship’s horns, cheers from the crowd and fireworks. Ships in harbour to witness the event included ferries, yachts, fishing boats and a salvage vessel.