Wellbeing of Women invest over £500,000 in 16 new research grants covering the entire life course
10 Feb 2023
WoW fundraiser Miriam sets record in world's most challenging rowing event
Our Royal Patron HRH The Countess of Wessex congratulates Miriam on the lifetime challenge in aid of women’s health
Our incredible fundraiser, Miriam Payne, has set a new record for the fastest solo female to row the Talisker Whisky Challenge.
Miriam set off on her 3,000-mile journey from La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Antigua on Monday 12 December 2022. After 59 days, 16 hours and 36 minutes, she arrived in Antigua on the morning of Friday 10 February 2023 – smashing the previous record by 2 hours and 38 minutes
Miriam has raised over £13,000 for two charities: Wellbeing of Women and Hull and East Yorkshire Mind.
In a letter addressed to Miriam, The Countess of Wessex, Patron of Wellbeing of Women, writes: “Many Congratulations Miriam on completing your magnificent challenge rowing solo for 3,000 miles across the Atlantic in aid of Wellbeing of Women.
“Your endurance of sleepless nights while rowing 14 hours a day and battling winds and high seas shows your huge courage, determination and focus – this has been a truly inspiring achievement. I hope you will now be able to treat yourself to a good night’s sleep on dry land!
“As Patron of Wellbeing of Women, I would like to thank you for all you have done to help raise awareness of women’s health. We hugely appreciate the meaningful difference you have made, and will continue to make, to our vital work in saving and changing the lives of women, girls and babies.”
While crossing the Atlantic, Miriam encountered lots of wildlife, including beaked whales, sharks and flying fish. She battled choppy waters, waves of up to 20 meters, risk of capsize, sea sickness and surviving on dehydrated food.
Miriam had to eat over 5,000 calories a day to replenish the energy spent on the oars. She rowed day and night, two hours on two hours off every single day.
Miriam is 23 years old and the idea to take on this row was sparked 6 years ago. She is a recent astrophysics graduate and can now add ocean rower onto that impressive track record.
Speaking about her fundraising, Miriam Payne, said: “I have chosen to fundraise for Wellbeing of Women and Hull and East Yorkshire Mind. Both charities are close to my heart, and I am inspired by the pioneering work they do and the causes they champion.”
Janet Lindsay, CEO of Wellbeing of Women, said: “Congratulations Miriam, you are amazing. I want to offer my heartfelt thanks from me and everyone at Wellbeing of Women. Now it is time for you to put your feet up and enjoy the sun in Antigua.”
