Two Yorkshire lawyers have triumphantly completed the World's Toughest Row, an unsupported Atlantic crossing, in a remarkable feat of endurance and charity fundraising. David Knaggs and Richard Larking, racing under the team name Greens2Blue, embarked on their epic journey from La Gomera in the Canary Islands on December 14, after months of intensive preparation.
A Gruelling 46-Day Ordeal
The duo crossed the finish line at Nelson's Dockyard in Antigua at 1:30pm UK time on January 29, greeted by a jubilant crowd of over 20 friends and family who had travelled from the UK, alongside dozens of locals and fellow competitors. Their incredible achievement was completed in 46 days, one hour, and 19 minutes, placing them 32nd overall in a fleet of 43 boats.
Perils and Triumphs on the High Seas
During their arduous voyage, the pair faced numerous life-threatening challenges. They survived a capsize in heavy mid-Atlantic storms, and in a particularly harrowing incident, David was thrown overboard several hundred miles from the finish line during severe weather. He was only saved by a harness and lifeline that allowed him to be hauled back aboard their 7.1-metre rowing boat, Brizo.
Reflecting on the experience, David said: "The vastness of the ocean was probably the high point and the capsize was definitely the low. It was frightening, thrilling and exhausting, and you learn so much about yourself, and your partner. We always said we just wanted two things, to make it to the other side, and still as friends. We never had a cross word at any point."
Relentless Routine and Unwavering Support
Richard added: "It was just relentless, two hours on, two hours off, always tired, and always wet clothes. We've had such great support from so many people and we really, really appreciate everyone who helped us to make this happen. From the trainers and coaches who helped up prepare for the experience, to the sponsors, and especially all our friends and family, it's been incredible."
The lawyers had trained for two years to cope with the sleep deprivation and physical demands of ocean conditions, taking two-hour shifts throughout the gruelling task. Their journey was further tested by 40-foot swells, a near miss with an ocean trawler, several ocean storms, and even being hit by flying fish.
Charitable Fundraising Success
So far, the pair have raised more than £180,000 for two much-loved regional charities: Maggie's Home of Cancer Care and Friends of Alfie Martin, with donations and sponsorship still flowing in. Among the oldest teams in this year's fleet, their efforts have garnered widespread admiration and support.
Business Backing and Community Pride
Julian Pitts, from lead sponsor Begbies Traynor Group (BTG), praised their determination: "The guts and determination of David and Richard is honestly remarkable. From the day they hatched this plan on the golf course together, they have single-mindedly battled to get the boat and equipment together to make it to the start line, raise the huge sums of money for charity, and be in the right mindset and condition to complete this massive challenge. We're hugely proud of the guys and look forward to hearing all about their adventure when they land back in Yorkshire."
A number of businesses have supported the duo's fundraising efforts, including:
- Headline sponsor, financial advisory and real estate firm Begbies Traynor Group
- Leeds-based corporate finance boutique Sentio Partners
- Other supporters such as Ginetta, Happy Drains, Optivet Referrals, Cellular Pathology Services, Macintosh James & Partners Wealth Management, El Gato Negro Tapas, Middleton Law, Richard Fahey Racing, Springfield Healthcare, Waterer's Services Limited, Walker Morris, and SBFM Ltd.
This extraordinary achievement not only highlights the resilience and camaraderie of the two Yorkshire lawyers but also underscores the power of community and corporate support in driving charitable causes forward.
