World’s Toughest Row: Jake reflects on the memorable moments and surprising challenges of his journey — and why it was all worth doing
What was it really like rowing 3000 miles across open ocean? From the diet of biscuits and sweets, to the sea life he encountered along the way, Jake reveals all about his incredible effort to raise funds for vital river restoration work.
24/03/26
Back in December 2025, Jake Still set off on a 3000-mile journey as he rowed solo across the Atlantic, raising funds for The Rivers Trust and Aire Rivers Trust. Now after completing the journey and taking time to rest, Jake is back in this guest blog to reflect on his experience. You can read about Jake’s training for the World’s Toughest Row in his series of four blog posts: One, Two, Three, and Four.
It has been over a month since I landed at English Harbour in Antigua after rowing 3000 miles, and what surreal experience it all was. Being part of the World’s Toughest Row community is special; the kinship between everyone that develops throughout the row is amazing.
The challenge
The race organisers had rebranded the challenge to the World’s Toughest Row and I can fully testify to just how befitting that title is. I had injuries: swelling on my forearms, cuts on my legs from the oars bashing into them, and not to mention the skin rash that developed on my bum which made it painful to sit on the rowing seat. The pain took out the joy of rowing and it was hard because despite all of that I had to keep going, because I was the only one who could make that boat move.
The toughest times were the days when the wind was not blowing much. This was frustrating because no matter how much effort I was putting in, my progress was so slow. The scariest moment was in the last week; I was knocked down by a wave from the side which tipped the boat at a steep, 90-degree angle. I didn’t capsize but I did lose my SpongeBob mascot - he was ripped from my harness and I was really upset about it. I hoped to have him make it the whole journey, but instead I watched as he floated away.
Calories and fish in abundance
Out of everything, what surprised me the most was how many flying fish were landing on my boat! You hear about it happening but not the extent of it and being slapped in the face by one at night is an interesting encounter to say the least. It was annoying when it happened though because they would flail on the deck and leave their scales everywhere and then it would all stink of fish.
However, my favourite part about the experience was being able to eat so many snacks. I know it sounds silly, but you need to eat so much a day to get the required calories for the effort. I figured I might as well eat a lot of stuff that I enjoyed! I would eat a whole tub of Pringles, 200-300g of biscuits, 200g of chocolate, and 200-300g of sweets to see me through. I would never get away with that back home, but these were essential, morale boosters throughout this adventure.
The peaceful moments and why it was all worth doing
One of most memorable moments for me was encountering another team in the middle of the Atlantic. I got so close, rowing right alongside them and it was amazing to speak to another person out there within just a couple of metres.
During the calmer nights, there was a real sense of tranquillity out on the water, especially when the moon was full and bright. Everything felt still and quiet, and for a moment it reminded me of rowing back home on the rivers. Despite being in the middle of the Atlantic, that same peacefulness was there too. It made me realise how much those moments mean; how lucky I’ve been to experience them both at home and out on the ocean.
The rivers have played a huge part in getting me to the start line of the Atlantic. They have always felt like a second home, particularly at Bradford Amateur Rowing Club on the River Aire. Because of that, it feels more important than ever to make sure they’re protected and restored to their natural, beautiful state. Thriving rivers don’t just benefit the environment - they help the communities around them thrive too.
In an incredible effort, Jake completed the World’s Toughest Row after 42 days and he has since raised over £5,800 for The Rivers Trust and Aire Rivers Trust. His fundraiser is still open and you can show support here.
You can learn more about Jake’s challenge on his website or view more on his Instagram.