The World’s Toughest Row

School News
Jan 15, 2026
1min Read

Two years ago, Tom and two friends James Woolley and Taylor Winyard formed the Atlantic Nomads team and started a long period of fund-raising, intensive training and preparation ahead of the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge.

On 12th December 2021, they boarded their 28-feet rowing ship Doris in La Gomera in the Canary Islands to begin the daring 3000-mile, 40-day unsupported row to Antigua.

The intrepid team braved Atlantic storms and battled through seasickness and exhaustion to raise an impressive £40 000 for Alabaré, a charity that supports vulnerable, homeless,and marginalised Veterans by providing accommodation and helping them gain the skills, confidence and opportunities to live a fulfilled life.

The pupils and staff at Orwell Park thoroughly enjoyed the talk, as well as the opportunity to see Doris for themselves.