Women's rowers break Pacific Ocean world record in record-breaking trip

In a remarkable feat of endurance and determination, Jessica Oliver, 32, and Charlotte Harris, 33, have broken the world record for the fastest row across the Pacific Ocean in nine days. The pair embarked on the grueling 2,800-mile journey from Monterey, California to Kauai, Hawaii on June 8, 2024, as part of the World's Toughest Pacific Challenge. After 37 days, 11 hours and 43 minutes, they arrived in Hawaii, breaking not only the fastest row record for a female pair, but also the overall pair record.

Oliver and Harris, who met at Cardiff University in Wales and became fast friends, were the first team in the competition to row successfully in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Their journey to this point began a few years ago when they knew nothing about rowing or the ocean. They signed up for the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge in 2020, a decision that would change their lives.

After two years of preparation, they rowed 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean from the Canary Islands to Antigua, setting a new world record for the fastest women's row across the Atlantic. Six months later, when the Pacific Challenge was announced, they decided to take on the new challenge, training five to six days a week for two years before the race.

The Pacific row was not without its challenges. The first 500 miles were particularly difficult due to weather conditions, and his nearly 23-foot-long boat lost its automatic steering during the first week. Despite these setbacks, they persevered, often rowing 16 to 20 hours a day.

One of the scariest moments of their trip was when they almost collided with an oil tanker. Their systems failed to alert them to the approaching ship, and they were surprised to see it heading straight for them. The tanker came within 30 feet of their rowboat, a close call that left them shaken but undaunted.

After 37 grueling days, crossing the finish line was an indescribable feeling for the couple. Not only did they win the women's category but they also finished second in the entire race, just 24 hours behind a team of four military men. As for their next challenge, Oliver hinted that they might opt ​​for something a little quieter. Their extraordinary journey is a testament to their resilience, camaraderie and indomitable spirit.