3500 Nautical Miles Across the Indian Ocean In No More Than A Rowing Boat!
Woodvale-Challenge offer approximately 30 boats the opportunity to compete on equal terms in what is referred to as "The World's Toughest Rowing Race". Three crossings traverse two of the World's Oceans, these being The Atlantic Ocean (with The North Atlantic Rowing Race and The Atlantic Rowing Race) and The Indian Ocean. The Indian Ocean Race for 2009 is of particular interest as it is a 'first'.
Ocean rowing crossings are few and far between. Indeed, more people have reached the summit of Mount Everest and have been into space than have rowed across one of the Earth's Oceans. From 279 recorded port departures, just 174 crossings have been completed and of those crossings just 5 have been across the Indian Ocean - more people have walked on the moon than have rowed crossed the Indian Ocean.
The Indian Ocean Race starts in Geraldton, Western Australia and is planned for April 2009 to miss the cyclone season that ends between February and March. The route will take teams over 3000 nautical miles across the Indian Ocean to the paradise island of Mauritius and is expected to take between 50 and 90 days.
The Indian Ocean offers competitors different challenges not seen with the crossings of the Atlantic. Not only is it the longest route of the three (in excess of 3000 nautical miles) but it is also the first organised race across the Southern Hemisphere. With this in mind a whole host of records will be available for competitors including; first four and youngest males, not to mention the overall land to land record and current speed records.
Facts About The Race
Remember this is the FIRST EVER Indian Ocean Race
Although this is the first RACE across, attempts at rowing across have been made in the past. Records show that 10 attempts have been made but only 2 have been succesful and both were on the second go!
The route will take teams over 3000 nautical miles across the Indian Ocean
Teams from all over the World will compete on equal terms, racing in boats made from the same exact mould
Fours teams should complete the crossing in around 60 days
Sharks, whales and dolphins will be common sight
In total, just to get on the start line we need to raise about £80,000!
For more info visit the Woodvale webpage
