Ocean Rowing 101

Relishing victory in 2006 and being stunned at seeing other humans for the first time in many, many weeks. Photo: erinnjhale.com

Founded by four University of Puget Sound Rowing alumni and teammates, the fledgling ocean rowing team dreamed of breaking records and winning the first rowing race across the North Atlantic Ocean.  Big goals…unimaginable odds.

However, this team shared one powerful foundation:  teamwork.  As collegiate rowers, each was conditioned to wake at “stupid o’clock” and bring one’s entire mental capacity to synchronize with a crew member’s rowing stroke.  Life at sea requires a rowing team to collaboratively solve problems, manage limited resources and persevere.

In the 115 year history only some 300 vessels have attempted ocean crossings with the first recorded being Harbo and Samuelsen in their vessel, FOX, to kick off this sport.  (Nearly 3000 people have climbed Everest.)  Today, England produces the most ocean rowers, and Seattle is becoming America’s ocean rowing center.

What does it take to become an ocean rower?  A boat in which to survive, patience, goal-driven passions, and the guts to call for a rescue.  Less than 10 ocean rowers have been lost at sea.

Reaching unique goals in ocean rowing demands detailed planning and financial support.  For OAR Northwest, the 18 month project timeline in 2005-06 required heavy doses of promotion, exposure and sponsorship.  National news networks, such as CNN & ABC, embraced the team’s enthusiasm, and the spotlights helped the team raise over $50,000 for American Lung Association of Washington.

Battling rough waters approaching landfall - Cornwall, UK. Photos: erinnjhale.com

OAR Northwest transitioned to an ocean rowing expedition and adventure education organization in 2010 and is now an international organization with offices in Washington State and British Columbia.  New expeditions and public programs continue to utilize rowing’s  fundamentals of combining brawn and brain.

NEWS: Contact OAR Northwest leadership to schedule school assembly programs; corporate, college and community talks; and, research opportunities.

(Andy Dappen’s article, The Crossing, includes an extended history lesson of ocean rowing)