A Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance clinician has helped set a new Guinness World Record after completing one of the world’s toughest endurance rowing challenges.
Dr Felix Wood, an RAF emergency medicine doctor who also works with Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA), was part of Team ROWMADS, which rowed more than 2,000 miles around the coastline of Great Britain in just over 32 days.
Team ROWMADS at Tower Bridge – photo credit GB Row
The five-person crew set off from London’s Tower Bridge on 14th June and completed the unsupported challenge in 32 days, 30 minutes and 58 seconds, becoming the fastest five-person crew to row around Great Britain.
Alongside the physical challenge, Dr Wood used the expedition to raise funds for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, a charity with which he works as a clinician.
The journey also had a scientific purpose. During the voyage, the crew collected more than 100 water samples to study microplastics and environmental DNA, recorded 750 hours of underwater sound to aid marine mammal research and took part in studies examining the effects of prolonged endurance on the human body and mind.
Reflecting on the challenge, Dr Wood said: ‘After 32 days at sea, we were the third fastest crew ever to row round Great Britain unsupported and we’ve also taken home a Guinness world record for the fastest five person crew.
‘In addition, we collected over 100 samples to test for microplastics and environmental DNA as well as 750 hours of hydrophone recordings to be analysed for marine mammals. We’ve also collected blood tests, saliva samples, interviews and performed exercise testing and bone scans to see the effect this trip has had on our bodies and minds.
‘My personal highlight was a close encounter with an orca in the far north of Scotland and the low point has to be our soaking wet cabin during a storm in the Irish Sea.
‘Throughout, the thought that we were raising money for worthwhile causes close to each of our hearts kept us pushing on through the tough times. Just like at DSAA we were only able to complete the mission due to strong teamwork and pulling together to a common goal. Knowing that my DSAA colleagues were following our progress on the GPS tracker also provided a little extra motivation!’
Charlotte Humber, Supporter Engagement Officer at Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, said the charity was ‘so proud of Felix and Team ROWMADS’ for completing the challenge and setting a new world record.
The team’s fundraising page remains open, with donations supporting Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance’s lifesaving work – https://www.givewheel.com/fundraising/8989/rowmads-gb-row-challenge/
