A determined four-man ocean rowing crew, known as Team Untamed, is attempting to smash world records as they navigate one of the world’s most challenging ocean routes — with technology, teamwork, and tenacity at the helm.
The team is aiming to become the first and fastest to row this particular stretch of ocean, a feat that would also mark a 13th ocean row world record for veteran rower Ralph Tuijin — the highest ever recorded.
Crucial to their attempt is a cutting-edge route optimisation model built by team member and PhD student Mr. de Kreij, who has blended scientific insight with real-time strategy. His model, developed during his research at the University of Western Australia (UWA), integrates live weather forecasting with two decades of historical oceanic data, allowing the crew to adjust their path with remarkable precision.
“The model works in two stages,” explained de Kreij.
“The first uses up to 10 days of forecast data to simulate optimal routes. Beyond that, we rely on the hindcast step, drawing on 20 years of historical weather data to predict the most reliable route for the current period.”
The model factors in wave direction, wind strength, and potential hazards that could jeopardize the rowers’ safety or slow their pace. Cross-waves, for example, can make rowing nearly impossible and pose health risks. This tool allows the team to dynamically adjust their route every three hours, improving both speed and safety.
To support constant communication and mid-course corrections, de Kreij has also employed Garmin Messenger for streamlined updates — a lifeline in the vast, often-isolated stretches of ocean.
“Ocean rowers face life-or-death decisions out there,” he said.
“This tool takes away uncertainty and empowers us to row smart, not just hard.”
Professor Phil Watson, Shell Chair of Offshore Engineering and Director of TIDE at UWA, expressed pride in the innovation’s practical impact:
“It’s inspiring to see a PhD project go from academic model to life-saving field application. This is a perfect blend of research and real-world utility.”
As the Untamed crew inches closer to their destination, the world watches — not just to see records fall, but to witness the power of human endurance combined with scientific ingenuity.
With the wind at their backs, tech on their side, and history within reach, Team Untamed is rewriting what’s possible on the open ocean.
