Four Pembrokeshire rowers have begun the final countdown to their 3,200 mile row from Lanzarote to Antigua as part of the C-MAP Atlantic Dash.

On January 23, 2025, Janine 70, Polly 50, Sophie 32, and Miyah 24 – otherwise known as the Cruising Free Atlantic Rowers – will take to the seas in their 10-metre long ocean rowing boat in a bid to raise funds for The Cystic Fibrosis Trust, Paul Sartori Hospice at Home, and Emily’s Entourage. 

Janine, at 70, is aiming to set the record as the oldest woman to row any ocean. She emphasised that age has never been a barrier for her. 

“People have been asking how I feel about undertaking the row at my age, but I’ve never let my age stop me from doing anything,” she said.

Meanwhile Sophie has a personal connection to this mission, as she lives with Cystic Fibrosis. Her goal is to become the first person with this condition to row an ocean.

Reflecting on her journey, Sophie shared, “If you had told me five years ago that I would be well enough to participate in this challenge, I wouldn’t have believed you. I’m so grateful to be able to access new drugs that have improved my health and have enabled me to become involved with such an extraordinary challenge. But there are still other people living with Cystic Fibrosis who have been unable to access this treatment, and raising awareness and improving access for all people with CF is a huge motivational factor.”

Miyah, the youngest member, is excited about the wildlife they might encounter while rowing. She said “It’s a heck of a challenge, but we have been amazed by how many people have got behind us and our cause.” As a water sports instructor, her skills will be vital during the expedition.

Polly, who works for the NHS, highlighted the importance of their mission: “Hospice at home services are a vital part of end-of-life care, and I have witnessed the good work that they do in local communities.”

With a well-planned strategy, the team will row in shifts, allowing two members to rest while the others row, however the women are preparing for the considerable mental challenges that await them, with mental resilience amounting to 70 per cent of an Atlantic rower’s output. As a result, the team has been training with experts to build their mental toughness which is essential for facing the challenges ahead.

To prepare for their journey, the women are not only training physically but are also gathering essential supplies. They will carry 1,000 dehydrated meals, advanced communications equipment, a water desalination machine, and even a fridge on their 10-metre boat. The team is now actively seeking financial support to cover their equipment and transportation costs, expressing gratitude for the backing they have received from local businesses, including their key sponsor, Bluestone National Park Resort. William McNamara, Bluestone’s Chief Executive, stated, “When we heard about this challenge, we were inspired by the team’s courage and determination. Supporting this journey was an easy choice, and we’re behind them every mile.”

With the voyage scheduled for Thursday (23 Jan) next year, the team is eager to share updates and experiences from their adventure. Sophie said “For me, this row isn’t just a crazy personal adventure, it’s also a chance to re-imagine the future of cystic fibrosis and bring hope that one day, everyone with CF will be able to cruise free through life.”

You can support Sophie, Polly, Janine, and Miyah on their journey by donating to their GoFundMe page.