Record-breaking Scottish rowers return to home waters off Kintyre

Since departing from Wick on June 1, Allan and Mhairi have rowed unassisted around Britain, on their mission to become the first mixed-pairs team to complete the more-than-2,000-nautical-mile expedition without touching land or accepting provisions. 

For nine weeks, they have relied solely on meticulously planned supplies and a desalination unit packed onboard their seven-metre rowing boat, Boudicea, often battling high winds and challenging tidal conditions, and never setting foot on solid ground. 

Allan, a full-time coxswain on the Wick lifeboat and Mhairi, a paramedic with the Scottish Ambulance Service and volunteer RNLI navigator, have demonstrated extraordinary determination and perseverance given the physical and mental demands of such an intense journey.  

The couple are well on the way to reaching their fundraising target of £30,000. 

Críona Knight, director of development and engagement at SCAA, said that everyone at the charity had been awed by Mhairi and Allan’s selfless endeavour. 

“The strengths and values shown throughout their challenging journey reflect those of SCAA,” she said, “and we’re hugely grateful that they have chosen us as one of the beneficiary charities from what is a truly heroic undertaking. 

“It’s been amazing to track their adventure and we’re delighted to join in welcoming them back to Scottish waters for the final leg of their Long Row Home.”

She added: “It is people like Mhairi and Allan – and their generous support – that ensures SCAA is there for those who need us most. We wish them calm waters and a safe row home.” 

Mhairi said the couple are very grateful to all who have supported their chosen charities. 

She said: “We have been completely overwhelmed by all those that we’ve met along the way – paddle boarders, swimmers, lifeguards, the crew of lifeboats, yachts, leisure and commercial vessels – who have stopped by to say hello, then gone on to contribute to our fundraising effort. 

“We still have a distance to go, but being back in Scottish waters feels surreal after such an incredible and very challenging journey. 

“It has, at times, been incredibly tough, but it’s the tremendous support that we continue to receive from our very loyal – and growing – band of followers that powers us on.” 

Supporters can follow their journey and contribute via their website – www.thelongrowhome.co.uk – and JustGiving page – justgiving.com/team/stormyandsteth – or on their Facebook and Instagram accounts.