An update from Lieutenant Commander Royal Navy Hugo Mitchell-Heggs – HMS Oardacious Campaign Director

Our Valkyries have been at sea for 37 days and have rowed over 2000 Nautical Miles (with just over 700Nautical miles to go). They are working hard and hoping to get into Antigua as soon as possible to be united with loved ones and enjoy some downtime having not rested for more than 2hours since they set off on 11 Dec.

They have had a particularly tough crossing this year, across the entire fleet with weather systems that have rarely been helpful.  They have had huge cross cutting waves broadsiding them (hitting them beam on/from the side), knock downs (a half capsize) and regularly pinned (where the boat gets blown round to the side and you cant turn it back on course).  They have also seen a day of headwinds that lead to deploying the Para Anchor (a big parachute put in the water that stops you getting blown too far backwards).  They have also seen long days of flat calm, windless waters where they have to go 3 up on the oars to make progress (forgoing rest to keep momentum on the boat).

Whilst they have had the full wrath of Poseidon thrown at them, they have also been enjoying the race, have had visits from dolphins and other marine wildlife, seen some amazing night skies and really gelled as a happy (and very tired) team.

Regardless of these difficulties and unfavourable conditions the team (Aaby Aldridge, Ali Aindow, Nic Hall and skipper Izzy Rawlinson) have worked so hard, looking after each other really well and finding the motivation to push themselves every day with a firm sight on the finish line when they will finally be able to relax.  They have no finally hit the trade winds (winds that will help them go faster) which will hopefully accelerate their pace to arrive in Antigua in just under 10 days time-ish (see image below).

 

  • The team have been inspired by some wonderful messages of support from supporters, friends, families, colleagues, sponsors, school children and outreach partners, and are also delighted to see their fundraising efforts progressing well!
  • They have raised over £12,000 since they set off in December for 2 charities:  Royal Navy and Royal Marines Charity and the Young Women’s trust:  Team Valkyrie 2024 Atlantic Row | givestar
  • We would be most grateful for any support to help them achieve their fundraising target of £20,000 by the time they finish their crossing.