After a year of preparation, I completed my solo row across the Atlantic in 96 days. Battling rough seas, equipment failures, and my own doubts, I learned more about resilience and determination than I ever imagined. The journey tested every limit I had but it also changed me in ways I’m still discovering. Read the full story to see how it all unfolded.

Training in the Solent has been both challenging and rewarding. Navigating tides, wind, and ferry traffic, I've learned to adapt and grow with each outing. These experiences are invaluable as I prepare for my solo Atlantic row. Discover more about my journey and the lessons learned on the water.

We have been out training on the water gradually extending the range and time that we spend rowing in preparation for my solo transatlantic row. The boat handles great, but is very dependent on the elements, primarily the wind. Learning by small mistakes, while avoiding big ones is the name of the game while I am getting ready for Leo's Row in January. Fundraising for my Ukrops Ukraine medical charity remains my primary focus as I am approaching the final countdown before I take off from Gran Canaria,

I am excited to announce that my boat Happy Socks is finally ready for Leo’s Row. It has undergone some structural repairs and a series of rollover tests after which new solar batteries have been installed with new wiring done by a professional marine electrician. It has then been wrapped up in yellow and blue colours of the Ukrainian flag, with yellow being one of the most easily seen colours on the surface of the Ocean. We have already been out in the Solent and are planning more extensive rows soon, including one around the Isle of Wight.

I am continuing with my training both in the gym and on the water, which has now completely replaced extended workouts on my Concept2 at home. The boat has undergone a series of roll-over tests and has now proven to be safe and stable. I am collecting it from the boatyard in Suffolk next week; then, it is back to Southampton where it will undergo a full electrical overhaul (change of batteries, solar panels and re-wiring) and wrapping up in a custom-made vinyl cover graphically designed for Leo’s Row. I am planning to start taking it out into the Solent by the end of July. I will need to do at least 100 nM of training in it in preparation for my transatlantic solo row.

There have been a few developments since the last blogpost. Firstly, I have finally towed the boat into a specialist boatyard in Suffolk where an important stability work will be undertaken. Secondly, I have completed my Yachtmaster Ocean qualification and passed my final assessment. Thirdly, I have undergone a laser eye surgery which will allow me to see a small GPS navigation screen while on deck and not to be dependent on glasses in the middle of the ocean during my Atlantic solo row.

I am thrilled to partner with Firepot - Dehydrated Meals for Adventurers, a Dorset-based company excelling in healthy, tasty dehydrated meals. Perfect for my Atlantic row, their variety of gluten-free options means delicious, high-calorie sustenance even during the roughest storms at sea.

My solo transatlantic row journey begins with comprehensive preparation. Under Lia Ditton's expert guidance, I'm mastering celestial navigation and night rowing skills, while enduring rigorous gym training. Every step of this journey is about transformation and survival at sea, as I gear up to realise my dream of rowing solo.

In this journey of self-discovery and support for Ukrainian medics, I'm pushing my limits, learning vital survival skills, and raising funds for a cause close to my heart. My goal is to make a real difference, focusing on key healthcare areas and leaders in Ukraine, transforming challenges into hope and positive change.

Embarking on a solo row across the Atlantic in January 2025, I'm setting out on a journey that tests both body and spirit. It's not just a personal challenge; it's also a mission to support Ukrainian medics. This is more than a row; it's a journey of resilience and solidarity.