TWO friends, covering 3,000 miles, to break one world record.
Jemma Rix and Lauren Woodwiss, known as team Whale of a Time, are training for their Atlantic challenge at the end of the year.
It will take them more than a million strokes to cover the distance from La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Antigua in December.
Jemma, 29, from Colchester, said they have never rowed before, but wanted to push themselves to the limit in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge.
She said: “The world record at the moment is 50 days for a female pair to cross from east to west.
“We just want to do it as quickly as possible.
“We are both really excited, I think the nerves will come later. There is so much to do before we leave but it will sink in over the next few months.
“We are still learning, I would by lying if I said I wasn’t a little bit nervous.”
Their mission is to raise funds for their three chosen charities while also raising awareness of global food waste.
During their time at sea, they will be consuming up to 1,000 dehydrated meals. They will only eat surplus or waste food.
The challenge will be tough, with more people having gone into space than row the Atlantic.
Only seven female pairs have made it across the Atlantic so far.
They will be rowing two hours on, two hours off, from December 12.
Jemma is pleased to have her friend Lauren, 28, by her side.
Jemma, who lives in Great Horkesley, said: “This will be a big physical and mental challenge for us.
“When you are in the middle of the Atlantic you are closer to someone in space than you are to someone on Earth.
“I can’t imagine what that feels like.”
As well as facing 40-foot waves, the women have their own fears to face.
Jemma said: “I’m definitely an English rose and so sunburn is a big concern, as is rowing in the dark.”
Personal trainer Lauren has created a programme for the pair to build up their strength and endurance.
They will be raising money for Cancer Research UK, Fair Share which fights hunger, and The Mintridge Foundation, which supports children.
The pair will be exhibiting at the Tendring Show, which will take place on July 14. Visit www.whaleofatime.co.uk.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel