Record-breaking rowers to be celebrated this weekend

Tuesday 27 February 2024

Four Jersey mums who broke a world record as they completed a 3,000-mile Atlantic rowing challenge will be celebrated in a special event in the Royal Square this Saturday.

Julie Brady, Helene Monpetit, Rosemary Satchwell and Alison Smithurst finished the race dubbed the 'World’s Toughest Row' in Antigua on Friday 9 February after 58 days at sea, setting a new world record for the oldest female crew to cross any ocean.

Competing as Intrepid 232 – the figure representing their combined ages – the crew's boat 'Black Squid' was one of 38 taking part in the 3,000-mile race to Antigua.

Pictured: There was a heroine's welcome at the Airport for crew members Julie Brady and Alison Smithurst.

Islanders are invited to come together to honour their accomplishment at a celebration in the Royal Square on Saturday from 14:45.

The event will feature the Intrepid 232 crew in open top vehicle, as well as live music and a Q&A sesson.

The Bailiff, Sir Timothy Le Cocq, said: "Many incredible Jersey rowers have completed the World’s Toughest Row but the fact these four ladies now hold the Ocean Rowing Stats World Record as the oldest female fours crew to ever cross the Atlantic Ocean gives particular cause for celebration.

"The crew of Intrepid 232’s determination, teamwork, and unwavering spirit have propelled them to achieve a historic feat that will be remembered for generations to come and inspire many others."

Video: The Intrepid232 team arriving to huge applause from supporters.

Chief Minister Deputy Lyndon Farnham added: "There has been an enormous amount of interest in the voyage of the Intrepid232 crew and many people followed their progress across the Atlantic and sent messages of support.

"Saturday’s celebrations will be an opportunity for the Jersey community to come together to applaud this extraordinary achievement and we look forward to welcoming home the four rowers and celebrating their success."