Record to Vivaldi Atlantic 4

by Linda Sears on 11 Jul 2005 They have done it – the Vivaldi Atlantic 4 have broken the world record for the fastest row across the North Atlantic in an incredible 40 days, 22 hours, 9 minutes and 30 seconds.

At 09.06 hrs GMT today, the four rowers’ boat, Naturally Best, crossed the official finishing line through Bishop’s Rock, off the Scilly Isles to beat the record of 55 days, held by Tom McClean since 1987.

The four-man crew are: Steve Dawson 44 from Boston, Lincolnshire, Nigel Morris 41 and George Rock 42 both from Ingleby Barwick, Teesside and Rob Munslow 27 from Monmouth, Wales.

They encountered many hazards during their epic voyage from St. John’s, Newfoundland, including icebergs, 60 foot waves, fog, headwinds and storms. The men fought for every mile, but it has been worth every stroke of the oars, to bring home the world record to the UK.

It was a tired but jubilant crew who were looking forward to meeting up with their families, having a hot shower and a celebratory pint!

Boat and crew are due to arrive in Falmouth in the next few days, when family, friends and well wishers will be waiting to welcome them home from their heroic journey.

Naturally Best is a Woodvale Fours class boat, designed and built by Devon based nautical events company, Woodvale Events. She is 29ft long with a 6ft beam and has performed superbly on her 2,100 mile voyage.

Naturally Best, the company behind the Vivaldi Potato, are delighted to be the title sponsors of this world record row. Marketing Director, Mark Powell said, ‘I have been talking to the crew daily and even though many times the elements were against them, they never lost their spirit and determination to succeed. We are all very proud of them and offer them many congratulations on such a fantastic world record achievement.'

All proceeds raised through various fund raising events surrounding their adventure will go to their nominated charity, The Meningitis Trust.

For more information: www.vivaldiatlantic4.com