Irishman, Daragh MacLoughlin, has won solo class in World’s Toughest Row, Raising €17,000 for Charity.
Galway man Daragh MacLoughlin is celebrating after an extraordinary solo crossing of the Atlantic, claiming victory in the solo class of the World’s Toughest Row. The 42-year-old completed the grueling 4,800km journey in 39 days, 20 hours, and 16 minutes, beating several multi-person teams along the way and finishing 14th overall out of 43 entries.
MacLoughlin, from Clarinbridge, set off from La Gomera in the Canary Islands on December 14th, facing unpredictable and often treacherous conditions. Throughout the journey, he battled slack winds and rough seas, all while raising funds for two charities close to his heart: Debra, supporting those with epidermolysis bullosa, and Irish Dogs for the Disabled. His initial €10,000 target has now been surpassed, with donations reaching €17,000.
The solo rower named his boat The Jasper after his late dog, whose collar he carried with him during the final leg of the journey into Nelson’s Dockyard in Antigua. Emotional moments awaited him on land, as his wife Suzanne and daughters Maeve and Saoirse greeted him at 8.22am Irish time amid chants of 'Olé, Olé, Olé'.
“It was everything I could have wanted and more,” MacLoughlin said. “I went in thinking this is just a race, that’s what I trained for. But after four days, the ocean told me it’s about so much more.”
He credited his family as a central motivation, explaining, “For my two young girls, I dedicate my row to them. I want them to know that in life, everything is possible. I had never rowed before, and look now—I’ve crossed an ocean. If you have a dream, apply yourself, and work hard, you can achieve anything.”
MacLoughlin described the journey as transformative. “It opened doors I didn’t think I’d ever open. If you’re willing, the ocean will take you places and show you what you’re capable of. I’m really, really happy.”
Event Manager Nikki Holter praised his achievement, stating, “Daragh has delivered an exceptional performance to win the solo class. His preparation, focus, resilience, and unwavering resolve exemplify the spirit of this race and deserve every accolade.”
After 39 days at sea, MacLoughlin’s first indulgence on land was a cold can of Coca Cola, a simple but meaningful reward after weeks of arduous rowing.
