Meet Team Raring to Row: A Bold Journey Across the Pacific for Charity

In a world brimming with extraordinary adventures, few can rival the 'oar'dacity of Team Raring to Row. This intrepid trio is gearing up to tackle an awe-inspiring challenge: rowing non-stop and unsupported across the Pacific Ocean. Their mission? To raise funds and awareness for two exceptional causes while embarking on the challenge of a lifetime.

The Team:

1. Kevin Watkins – The driving force behind Team Raring to Row, Kevin is a former Royal Navy Marine Engineer whose passion for service has shaped his entire life. A stalwart supporter of the Royal Naval Association, Kevin's goal is to honour the legacy of his fellow servicemen and women by raising vital funds for the veterans' charity. “Rowing across the Pacific is not just about testing our limits,” says Kevin. “It’s about giving back to the Naval community that has given so much to me.”

2. Emma Wolstenholme – Emma, who will be the team’s skipper, is no stranger to extraordinary feats. As a fully qualified Yachtmaster, she brings unparalleled expertise to the crew. Last summer, Emma successfully led an all-female team around Great Britain, setting a new world record by completing the journey in just 44 days—an entire week faster than the previous record. Her exceptional leadership and navigational skills were key to this historic achievement. Emma is also the national ambassador to the RAF Air Cadets, reflecting her deep commitment to the organisation that shaped her life. “The Air Cadets gave me the wings to pursue my dreams,” Emma says. “Now, as skipper, I’m excited to lead this incredible team on a new adventure and support the Air Cadets along the way.”

3. Mirjam Ferkenius – Hailing from the Netherlands, Mirjam brings a unique perspective and remarkable resilience to the team. Having recently completed a trek across the length of Spain, she is now ready to conquer an even greater challenge. “The Pacific Ocean represents the ultimate test of endurance and teamwork,” Mirjam says. “I’m thrilled to be part of this journey and to contribute to two causes that are close to our hearts.”

The Search for the Fourth Member:

As the team prepares for their epic voyage, they are actively seeking a fourth member to join their ranks. This individual will need to embody the same spirit of adventure and commitment to charitable causes that defines Team Raring to Row. Ideal candidates will have a background in rowing or endurance sports, a passion for philanthropy, and a readiness to face the formidable challenges of ocean rowing.

A Journey of Hope and Determination:

Team Raring to Row’s expedition is more than a physical challenge; it is a testament to the power of human spirit and the importance of giving back. Their efforts will not only test their limits but also shine a spotlight on the critical work of the Royal Naval Association and the Royal Air Force Air Cadets.

With the Pacific Ocean as their stage, these remarkable individuals are setting out to prove that with courage, determination, and 2800 miles of ocean, anything is possible. As they embark on this epic voyage, they invite you to join them on this incredible journey and support their mission.

Stay tuned for updates on their progress and ways you can contribute to their fundraising efforts. Together, we can support the causes that mean so much to Team Raring to Row and make a lasting impact on the lives of those they aim to help.

Above: Team Raring to Row's final mile as they row back to Northney Marina, having just completed a 39 hour training row in the Solent and English Channel, covering a multitude of drills and 2 overnight rows.