Storms and capsizes but intrepid Harrogate lawyers complete 3,000 mile Atlantic rowing challenge

Racing as Greens2Blue, David Knaggs and Richard Larking began their Transatlantic attempt from the Canary Islands in December and crossed the finish line on January 29 in Antigua after an incredible, action-packed journey.

The pair, who have so far raised more than £180,000 for Maggie’s Home of Cancer Care and Friends of Alfie Martin with donations and sponsorship still flowing in, were among the oldest teams in this year’s fleet of 43 boats, finishing 32nd overall.

During their 46-day journey they survived capsizing in heavy storms in the mid-Atlantic in which David was even thrown overboard during severe weather several hundred miles from the finish line, surviving only thanks to a harness and lifeline

that ensured he was able to be hauled back aboard the 7.1m rowing boat, Brizo.

"The vastness of the ocean was probably the high point and the capsize was definitely the low,” said David.

"It was frightening, thrilling and exhausting, and you learn so much about yourself, and your partner.

"We always said we just wanted two things, to make it to the other side, and still as friends.

"We never had a cross word at any point.”

David and Richard had trained for two years to cope with the sleep deprivation and physical demands of ocean conditions as they took two-hour shifts throughout the gruelling task, which took them 46 days, 1 hour and 19 minutes to complete.

The pair fought 40 ft swells, a near miss with an ocean trawler, several ocean storms and were even hit by flying fish as they took their turn at the oars.

Richard said: “It was just relentless, two hours on, two hours off, always tired, and always wet clothes.

"But we’ve had such great support from so many people, from the trainers and coaches who helped up prepare for the experience, to the sponsors, especially Begbies Traynor Group, and all our friends and family.”

To donate to David and Richard’s charities, visit: www.greens2blue.co.uk