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British Duo Become the Youngest to Row across the Indian Ocean

At 1226Hrs GMT today, young Britons James Thysse and James Facer-Childs, both aged just 22, from Berkshire completed the inaugural Indian Ocean Rowing Race 2009, becoming the youngest ever Pairs crew to do so.

Bringing this most extreme of ocean adventures to a close, James and James are the fifth and final team to finish the race.  More than three months previously, ten courageous teams set off from Geraldton, Western Australia with the aim to row 3,132 nautical miles across the Indian Ocean to the beautiful island of Mauritius.

When their boat named ‘Southern Cross’ capsized in the first half of the race, damaging equipment and ruining food supplies, the odds increased against James and James finishing the race.  They were forced to ration meals causing considerable weight loss, yet despite these obstacles, the youngest team in the race achieved their goal with a crossing time of 103 days, 9 hours and 26 minutes.

Southern Cross crew member, James Thysse comments: “Capsizing in the middle of the Indian Ocean was the most scared I have ever been.  But when we righted, checked over the boat and had time to reflect, we were more determined than ever to reach Mauritius, no matter what.

Seeing all our friends and family on the dockside in Mauritius was an amazing feeling and something I will never forget.  We are now both looking forward to the delight of putting all our lost weight back on again”.

Organised by West Country based nautical events company, Woodvale Challenge Ltd, the Indian Ocean Rowing Race 2009 is one in a series of rowing races with a difference.  Providing ordinary people with the chance to achieve the extraordinary, Woodvale Ocean Rowing Races offer the adventure of a lifetime to anyone regardless of gender, age or experience.   

Simon Chalk, Chairman of Woodvale Challenge comments: “The Indian Ocean Rowing Race 2009 has been a fantastic success, with five of the original ten starting boats finishing the race, which more than doubles the list of people who have ever done so.

The number of records established by the crews who competed in this race is extensive, ending with the last team, Southern Cross who also set a new record.  This is all credit to the tenacity, determination and shear will to succeed of the competitions who took part.  Well done to all of you.”