Having attempted to row the North Pacific Ocean solo and unsupported in 2012, I knew I would return to the ocean again but what I didn’t know was when. I hoped for 2013, then 2014, then 2015 and now, thanks to Hesco, I am returning to Japan in 2019 to row to the USA, solo.

It’s not been an easy journey to get to the ‘start line’ in Japan and I’m not there yet, but as other ocean rowers will confess, getting to the start can be as much of a challenge as the row itself. Without a doubt, more people give up during the planning and preparation phase than they do on their respective challenge.

Whilst working overseas, the planning has continued as do preparations, but preparing remotely is far from ideal. I’m fortunate to have a supportive family and some amazing friends who have committed time and effort to “Row Pacific 2019”.