Zara is aiming to set multiple world records whilst raising funds for two charities!
- First female to row from mainland Europe to mainland South America solo and unsupported.
- Youngest person to achieve this feat.
- Youngest female to row from any mainland to mainland across the Atlantic.
Zara has set off from Portugal at 9.05 27th October 2024 - Video of her leaving
University student Zara Lachlan is hoping to inspire other women and set multiple world records by being the first woman and youngest person ever to row 3,600 nautical miles solo and unsupported from mainland Europe to mainland South America.
The gruelling expedition will see 21-year-old Zara rowing for 15 hours per day from Portugal to French Guiana and is predicted to take 90 days from start to finish, ending in January 2025. Zara, an aspiring technical officer in the Army, will take on a number of challenges during the expedition, including encountering orcas, marlins and sharks and battling 20ft waves.
Speaking about the expedition, Zara said: "Other women have rowed from Africa to South America, but not mainland to mainland so I’ll be setting another world record there. Rowing over winter means I’ll be less likely to encounter tropical storms, but there are still plenty of other risk factors to consider. The ocean can be pretty scary.”
As a young solo female traveller Zara is a preparing for the danger of pirate attacks and hijackings as she travels past West Africa. She is also undertaking a strict health and fitness regime to ensure she is in peak physical condition ahead of starting the challenge. “I’ve been doing 39 hours of cardio per week in preparation for the expedition and I’ve been working with a nutritionist to ensure that the four meals I have each day will contain enough calories to maintain my weight – that’s 4,000 calories per meal.
“I think the most daunting part for me so far is the thought of getting out of my boat and into the ocean every two days to clean it and do any maintenance,” she said. “However, I’ve had lots of calls with marine biologists to educate me about the ocean so it should be fine and I’ll remain tethered to the boat at all times.”
Zara show's us around her boat - https://youtube.com/shorts/PMgRDOfEH9s
Once Zara starts her expedition you will be able to follow her progress on an interactive map at teamforces.org/zara-lachlan
Why am I crowdfunding?
My expedition is already fully funded by sponsorship from Team Forces, Civica, Collins Aerospace, Qioptiq, Spectra Group and Telent. However whilst attempting my world record breaking row I really want to raise funds for two charities close to my heart the Team Forces Foundation and Women in Sport - both of which make an incredible difference to so many people.
Where the money I raise will go to
All donations will be going to the Team Forces Foundation and Women in Sport (50/50 split)
- "Team Forces is delighted to be able to support Zara on her record-breaking expedition attempt. Her dream to row solo and unsupported across the Atlantic would seem unattainable to most but Zara’s engaging character combined with a tenacious drive has inspired a wave of support to now make it a reality."
Major General Lamont Kirkland CBE, CEO Team Forces
- "Women in Sport is thrilled to have Zara on board as she sets out on this remarkable voyage across the Atlantic. Rowing an ocean is an unimaginable feat for many, but Zara’s resilience and grit are nothing short of awe-inspiring. Her determination to push boundaries and challenge herself embodies the spirit of our organisation. With this support, through our 40th anniversary, Women in Sport can continue to spearhead long-lasting change for women and girls in sport, and in society. We extend our deepest thanks to Zara, and all those that rally behind her, for this incredible contribution to our mission."
Stephanie Hilborne OBE, CEO Women in Sport