A British amateur rower has travelled 3,000 miles across the Atlantic and has become the first woman of colour to cross any ocean solo.
Ananya Prasad, 34, was the only female out of the 110 participants.
She set off on 11 December 2024 from La Gomera in the Canary Islands, before reaching the finish line in Antigua on 1 February 2025.
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And the achievement has been made even more impressive, as she claims to have had no prior rowing experience before signing up.
Ananya, from Sheffield, made the incredible feat after taking part in the World’s Toughest Row.
To ensure she was ready for the race, the 34-year-old spent three years doing intense preparations.
Not only did she train rigorously to build up her mental and physical resilience, but she also learned how to survive on her own, reports Need To Know.
During her 52 days at sea, she also had a lot of unique experiences.
From close encounters with orcas to riding 20-foot waves and tackling her serious phobia of deep waters.
The challenge was taken on in support of the Mental Health Foundation and the Deenabandhu Trust, which provides home and education for orphaned and impoverished children in South India.
Ananya now joins a small group of “elite” female rowers who have crossed a world ocean and hopes that her achievement will inspire others.
“This isn’t just about me. It’s about encouraging women of colour – and anyone from a different background – to take on challenges they might have not considered possible,” Ananya, who has been sharing her journey on Instagram, (@atlantic_odyssey), said.
“It’s about breaking barriers not just for women, but for anyone who feels like they don’t have the support or representation to pursue something like this.”
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