Cazz Lander part of world record breaking boat crew
First three-strong crew to row across Pacific Ocean
A LOUGHBOROUGH woman has made history by being part of the first ever crew of three to row across the Pacific Ocean - breaking two world records.
Cazz Lander, 28, a sport scientist at the town’s university, was taking part in the Great Pacific Race from California to Hawaii in June.
The 2,400-mile challenge saw Cazz and her two crewmates - Megan Hoskin, from London, and American Andrea Quigley - become the first three-strong crew, male or female, to achieve the daunting feat in just 62 days, reaching their destination, Waikiki in Hawaii, on Wednesday last week.
The endeavour saw the Pacific Terrific crew face numerous daunting challenges in their ocean rowing boat Danielle, with each woman rowing more than 13 hours a day to keep the boat moving 24 hours day and night and tackling waves of up to 30ft.
There was also the prospect of painful blisters, the risk of capsizing and dangers posed by sharks and whales in the world’s largest ocean.
They broke world records for being the first team of three to make the crossing and the youngest female crew of three to row any ocean in the world.
The crew were also aiming to inspire others, along with raising awareness of plastic pollution in our oceans and funds for the mental health charity, Mind.
The boat was just 25ft long and the three women lived and rowed onboard for the duration of the race.
Speaking before setting off on the challenge, Cazz said: “The boat has no sails or engines, it’s simply moved only by the crew pulling on the oars.
“There is one small cabin for storage at the bow of the boat, and one small cabin for accommodation at the stern.
“You can barely sit, let alone stand or stretch. In seas too rough or dangerous to row.”
The boat did have some impressive kit, including electronic navigation aids, the latest safety gear and desalination equipment so the crew could drink sea water.
It was not the first nautical challenge Cazz has undertaken, after being part of a relay team that swam the English Channel.
To support the Pacific Terrific crew go to www.gofundme. com/PacificTerrific