‘ The Row to Recovery ’ by Sam Peters

Written By Chris Shirley MA FRGS

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In 2011, six ex-servicemen embarked on an arduous mission to row across the Atlantic Ocean, an endeavour accomplished by fewer people than those who have summited Everest.

Among these six men, four had been severely wounded during active service in Afghanistan and Iraq, adding a remarkable layer to their achievement. Their journey, fraught with physical, mental, and technical challenges, is a testament to their extraordinary resilience and unyielding spirit.

 

The crew faced numerous obstacles, including a broken rudder, blistering heat, and a shortage of fresh water. Forced onto emergency rations for 17 days due to a malfunctioning water purifier, the men exhibited an indomitable will to persevere. Rory Mackenzie, an amputee, even spent Christmas Day removing shrapnel from his body, underscoring the relentless hardships they endured.

 

Their voyage captivated the British public and garnered significant media attention, with coverage from major outlets such as the BBC, ITV, Channel 4, and Sky News. Public concern for their safety peaked as their water supplies dwindled, yet the crew's morale remained surprisingly high. A satellite phone call from Prince Harry, intended to boost their spirits, highlighted the remarkable courage and camaraderie within the team.

 

"The Row to Recovery," written by former Army officer and journalist Sam Peters, documents this incredible expedition. The book not only details the Atlantic crossing but also delves into the personal battles each crew member faced—from their harrowing tours of duty to the challenging rehabilitation processes that followed. It’s a story of physical and mental triumph, illustrating that with determination and support, even the most daunting obstacles can be overcome. This inspiring narrative serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of military service and the power of human resilience.

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Chris Shirley MA FRGS

About the Author: A former Royal Marines officer and advisor to the BBC, Chris has travelled in over 60 countries, is a fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, a Guinness World Record holder for rowing over 3500 miles across the Atlantic Ocean, a Marathon des Sables finisher, and is the founder of ‘Haus of Hiatus’, a website design and branding studio that designs and amplifies start-ups, scale-ups and special projects around the world.

He has worked with Hollywood actors, world–renowned musical artists and TV personalities, and is delighted to have had his work featured by the United Nations, Red Bull, BBC, and even seen at the South Pole!

https://www.hausofhiatus.com/team
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