A team of four British rowers, including Royal Marine Sam Edwards, has returned to the UK after a grueling 56-day journey across the Atlantic Ocean, claiming to have “smashed” a world record. The crew, which also includes Jack Jarvis, David Bruce, and Adam Radcliffe, embarked on the 3,500-mile (5,630 km) voyage from New York City to Southampton.
The team, named United We Conquer, is in the process of having its record-breaking feat verified. They believe they have set a new world record for the longest distance rowed in a 24-hour period. According to Edwards, the team achieved a remarkable 140 nautical miles, a figure that far surpasses the previous unofficial record of 116.76 nautical miles.
While their primary objective was to break the world record for the fastest row across the North Atlantic, the team encountered significant challenges, including a major storm and a capsize on day eight of the journey. Despite these setbacks, the crew’s resilience and teamwork allowed them to complete the epic crossing.
Beyond the physical challenge, the expedition had a higher purpose. The team successfully raised over £104,000 for Head Up, a UK charity dedicated to promoting mental health awareness for members and veterans of the UK armed forces. The funds will be used to support the charity’s mission of providing positive mindset retreats and assistance to those who have served.
The completion of the voyage, despite the hardships, is being celebrated as a triumph of endurance and a testament to the team’s commitment to their cause, with a wider community now awaiting the official confirmation of their new world record.
