Three courageous UAE residents, Toby Gregory, Orlagh Dempsey, and Andy Savill, have set out today on The Arctic Challenge, a pioneering 1,500km rowing journey from Tromso, Norway to Svalbard. Their goal is to be the first unassisted and unsupported trio to complete this arduous route, aiming to highlight ocean conservation and plastic pollution. The expedition, expected to take 20-25 days, will see them rowing continuously through harsh conditions, with their boat Ocean Guardian proudly flying the UAE flag.
The Arctic Challenge aims to achieve historic milestones, inspire global audiences, and advance scientific research. Leading up to the expedition, the team has engaged over 60 schools and 200,000 students, with a goal to reach one million students worldwide by November, coinciding with UAE National Day celebrations.
Partnering with the United Nations Environment Programme’s ‘Clean Seas’ initiative, the team will conduct environmental experiments during their journey, supporting the UAE’s commitment to sustainable development.
Founded by Toby Gregory following his monumental 2022 Atlantic row, The Arctic Challenge also marks a significant milestone for Orlagh Dempsey. As the first woman to undertake this challenging route, Dempsey is breaking new ground and setting an inspiring example for women in extreme sports and environmental advocacy.
The trio aims to set five Guinness World Records, including the northernmost latitude on land reached by a rowing vessel and the first trio to row the Arctic Ocean from south to north. Their journey also holds potential for additional records, such as the first female and first mixed team to row the Arctic Ocean.