Maidenhead rowers complete 3,000-mile challenge across Atlantic Ocean for Alexander Devine

Two Maidenhead rowers who embarked on a 3,000-mile unsupported row across the Atlantic Ocean for charity have successfully completed their challenge.

The Ocean Oarsmen duo Ben Cornwall and Henry Eastick announced they had entered the World’s Toughest Row challenge in 2024, with the aim of raising £50,000 for the Maidenhead-based Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service.

They set off on their challenge from La Gomera in the Canary Islands on Sunday December 14 and faced the full force of the Atlantic on their journey.

They endured extreme sleep deprivation, as well as choppy seas and towering 20-foot waves while rowing in gruelling two-hour stints aboard their ocean rowing boat PEGASUS.

Despite the conditions, Ben and Henry reached the finish line safely in Antigua after 47 days, one hour and 28 minutes at sea.

Based in Snowball Hill, Alexander Devine supports more than 200 babies, children and young people with life-threatening and life-limiting conditions and their families across Berkshire, South Bucks and the surrounding areas.

Through their efforts the pair have raised almost £10,000 of their £50,000 goal on their JustGiving page.

Ben Cornwell said: “Rowing 3,000 miles unsupported across the Atlantic is nothing compared to the daily hardships faced by the families supported by Alexander Devine.

“Our row is a testament to their incredible strength and resilience, and our dream is to make a tangible difference in our community while embracing the adventure of a lifetime.”

Fiona Devine, CEO and co-founder of Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service, said, “We are incredibly proud of Ben and Henry and in awe of what they have achieved.

“To row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic in such challenging conditions is an astonishing accomplishment.

“Their strength, determination and commitment to raising vital funds for the children and families we care for is truly inspiring.

“On behalf of everyone at Alexander Devine, thank you for going above and beyond.”

Supporters can still donate to the JustGiving page, which can be found at: www.justgiving.com/page/ocean-oarsmen-1