Fiona Deakin and her friends prepare for a historic 3,000-mile journey.
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A remarkable journey is set to unfold as Fiona Deakin, a 59-year-old mother from Cromarty, prepares to row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean. This ambitious endeavor, scheduled for December 2025, aims to break the world record for the first all-female team to complete such a feat.
Fiona, along with her three friends, forms the team known as Scotland the Wave, and they are determined to make history while raising funds for charity.
The Challenge Ahead
The journey will commence from Tenerife and conclude in Antigua, with an estimated duration of 60 days.
The team will adopt a rigorous rowing schedule of two hours on and two hours off, navigating through unpredictable weather conditions and the vastness of the ocean. Fiona and her teammates—Andrena McShane-Kerry, Nicky Matthews, and Heather MaCallum—are well aware of the challenges they will face, including sleep deprivation, sea sickness, and the possibility of encountering marine life such as whales and sharks.
A Personal Motivation
Fiona’s motivation for undertaking this monumental task stems from a desire to embrace life after the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. She shared her inspiration, stating, “After Covid, I wanted to do something amazing, before I wasn’t able anymore.” The loss of a close friend, who passed away from a brain hemorrhage, further fueled her determination. Fiona believes that life is fleeting, and she wants to make the most of her time by pursuing extraordinary experiences.
Building a Supportive Team
The formation of Scotland the Wave began three years ago when Andrena sought passionate rowers for the challenge. Fiona, despite having no prior rowing experience, joined the team after seeing an advertisement on social media. The camaraderie among the team members has been a vital aspect of their preparation, as Fiona emphasized the importance of teamwork in such a demanding environment. “We all got on really well, and that is just as important as being fit,” she noted.
Fundraising for a Cause
To participate in this historic race, the team needs to raise £150,000 to cover equipment, food, and entry fees. So far, they have successfully raised £86,000 through generous donations from supporters. Fiona explained the financial breakdown, highlighting that the boat alone costs £25,000, with an additional £10,000 needed for provisions. After the race, the team plans to sell their ocean rowboat and equipment, with proceeds benefiting several charities, including Breast Cancer UK and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.
Join the Journey
Fiona and her team are not just aiming to break records; they are also committed to making a positive impact through their adventure. Each charity involved is set to receive approximately £25,000 from the sale of the boat and equipment. Supporters can contribute to this inspiring cause through Fiona’s GoFundMe page, helping to turn their dream into reality while supporting vital charities.
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