Scottish Brothers Break Record with Fastest Pacific Row in 139 Days
URGENT UPDATE: Three Scottish brothers have made history by completing the fastest unsupported row across the Pacific Ocean in just 139 days. Jamie, Ewan, and Lachlan Maclean arrived in Cairns, Australia on Saturday, achieving a remarkable feat that has never been done before: a nonstop journey of over 9,000 miles from Peru to Australia.
The Maclean brothers are the first team to successfully row the full crossing from South America to Australia, breaking the previous record of 160 days set by Russian solo rower Fyodor Konyukhov in 2014. Their journey was fraught with challenges, including fierce storms, seasickness, and injuries, which culminated in a harrowing incident where Lachlan was swept overboard.
Their arrival at Cairns Marlin Marina was met with a jubilant celebration as over 50 family members, supporters, and fans, including their mother Sheila, welcomed them back. The brothers made a festive entrance, playing the bagpipes and waving the flags of Scotland, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
In a light-hearted moment just hours before their landing, Ewan uploaded a video asking the marina staff, “Do you have pizza and beer? I repeat, do you have pizza and beer? Over.” Reflecting on the grueling expedition, Ewan, 33, stated, “This was the hardest thing I have ever done. I would never have contemplated it without my brothers by my side.”
The emotional toll of the journey was felt deeply by all three brothers. Jamie, 31, expressed the dire straits they faced towards the end of the trip, saying, “We seriously thought we might run out of food.” The experience has forever changed their perspective on life, and they are committed to continuing their fundraising efforts.
The Macleans have raised over £700,000 (approximately $945,690) towards their goal of £1 million (around $1,350,450) for clean water projects. Their charity, the Maclean Foundation, aims to provide clean water to 40,000 people living in Madagascar.
As the brothers settle back into everyday life, they plan to keep pushing for their fundraising initiatives, driven by the profound impact of their journey. This record-breaking achievement not only highlights their incredible determination but also brings attention to the critical need for clean water access in underserved communities.
Stay tuned for more updates on their ongoing efforts and the legacy of their historic Pacific row.
