SEATTLE (August 7, 2006) On August 7, Seattle-based ocean rowing team Ocean Adventure Racing (OAR) Northwest is within 300 miles of crossing the finish line of the Shepherd Ocean Fours Rowing Race 2006.
On June 10, the OAR Northwest team departed from New York harbor on a 2863 nautical-mile race from to Falmouth, England. Now, nearly two months, 2600 nautical miles, and a couple of tropical storms later, each oar stroke brings the rowers closer to accomplishing the challenge of a lifetime.
When finished, the OAR Northwest rowers will be the first Americans to row the North Atlantic route from New York harbor to Bishop Rock, off the Isles of Scilly, UK. Additionally, if the OAR Northwest team maintains its lead, the James Robert Hanssen will be the first boat ever rowed from mainland United States to mainland England.
The team is expected to cross the finish line August 11 or 12, depending on weather conditions. The rowers have been resting in preparation for high winds as they make their final push toward the finish line.
"We have a system with high winds mounting against us. We expect it test our mettle so close to the finish line," said Spooner. "We're taking evasive action by heading north to the top end of the finish line so the northwest wind against us will help us hit the finish line. That's why you'll see our course moving north right now."
While at sea, the rowers have continued to raise money for the American Lung Association of Washington. In honor of rower Jordan Hanssens father, James Robert Hanssen, the rowers dedicated the last 1000 miles of the race to raising awareness about the impact of asthma on residents of Washington State.