Two British women have made sporting history after setting a new world record as the fastest women’s pair to row the Atlantic Ocean, while raising vital funds and awareness for young people’s mental health.
Beth and Jess, rowing as Atlantic Highway, crossed the finish line in Antigua as Winners of the Women’s Class in the World’s Toughest Row 2025, completing the 3,000-mile crossing from La Gomera to Antigua in an extraordinary time of 38 days, 12 hours and 18 minutes.
Rowing completely unsupported, the pair battled 40-foot waves, tropical storms and extreme fatigue — breaking the previous women’s pair world record by almost a full week in one of the toughest endurance races on the planet.
Fewer than 70 all-female crews have successfully rowed the Atlantic from east to west, compared to more than 480 all-male crews, placing Beth and Jess among an elite group of women worldwide to complete the challenge.
Alongside their record-breaking attempt, Atlantic Highway chose to row in support of The Wave Project, a UK charity that improves young people’s mental health through the power of Surf Therapy.
Their journey has helped raise awareness of the vital role physical movement, connection and blue spaces can play in supporting emotional wellbeing. Supporters following the row have now helped the team surpass their £10,000 fundraising target, with donations still open to extend the impact for young people across the UK.
Jaz Bennett, North Devon Project Coordinator for The Wave Project, said: “Through Surf Therapy we help young people find calm, connection and healing. Watching Jess and Beth complete this extraordinary crossing — and set a new world record in the process — has been truly inspiring.
“The funds raised will directly support 8 young people, helping them build confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging through time in the ocean. We’re incredibly proud to have been part of their journey.”
The 2025 World’s Toughest Row brought together 43 teams, 114 rowers and 20 nations, with Atlantic Highway emerging as the fastest women’s pair in race history.
If you’d like to donate to the cause, head to the website www.atlantichighway39.com.
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