DRAMATIC footage from a record-breaking row across the Atlantic Ocean by a group of Caerleon friends has been released.
Team Oarstruck have published the footage ahead of a special fundraising ball celebrating their Atlantic adventure next month.
John Morgan, Hugo Thompson, Monty Williams and Joel Wood, all aged 26, completed the 3000-mile Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge in February.
The four Caerleon Comprehensive School friends, who had no prior rowing experience, set off from the Canary Islands on December 14 and crossed the finish line in Antigua 55 days, two hours and 23 minutes later.
Mr Thompson has Type 1 diabetes and became the first person with the condition to complete the challenge. The team have so far raised more than £11,000 for Diabetes UK Cymru.
The teammates will share the inspirational inside story of The World’s Toughest Row at a black tie ball on Saturday, May 5 at the Celtic Manor Resort.
During the race the team had to overcome treacherous weather, which saw four of the original 27 teams needing rescue, as well as seasickness and physical exhaustion. They celebrated Christmas and the New Year at sea, keeping in touch with home via satellite phone.
Their friends and families were waiting to meet them as they arrived in English Harbour, Antigua on February 7.
Mr Thompson said: “The race was a totally awesome experience. We couldn’t believe we’d been out on the ocean for more than 50 days.
"The welcome in Antigua was amazing, seeing all our families and our girlfriends at the harbour was the best sight ever. I want this to be a message to anyone with diabetes that it’s not a barrier to doing the things you want to do in life.
“We made some truly incredible memories, from seeing whales and flying fish to persevering through the harshest conditions the ocean could throw at us in the middle of the night."
The evening will include a drinks reception, three-course meal, question-and-answer session with the team and video footage from their time at sea.
Tickets cost £55 with proceeds going to Diabetes UK Cymru.
For more information or to buy tickets, contact Team Oarstruck on social media, email Team@oarstruck.com or call 07727 443246.
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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