Think back to the last time you challenged yourself. I mean, really challenged yourself. When you step outside your comfort zone, great things can happen and the rewards can be amazing, uplifting and life changing.
So, how does rowing 3000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean sound as a challenge? This is exactly what Pilates teacher Sabrina Simpson and osteopath Leanne Maiden are set to do, and the Scotland based duo, called She rOars, are swapping their day jobs for an epic Transatlantic rowing challenge later this year.
Pushing the boundaries of physical endurance whilst raising awareness and funds for charities close to their hearts, the journey isn’t just about conquering the vast ocean - it’s to inspire others to believe in their own strength and potential. And empower individuals, especially young girls and women, to pursue their dreams fearlessly, break down societal barriers and enjoy an adventure of discovery.
As proud sponsors of She rOars, we couldn’t be more delighted to share their story as they prepare for The World’s Toughest Rowing Race across the Atlantic in December 2023.
Their story
Sabrina: I grew up in a small coal mining community in BC, Canada. In 1999, I came to Scotland on a holiday work visa spending the majority of my time working in the Dunkeld area. I then decided to study in Glasgow and have been here ever since. I now live in Stirling.
Leanne: I arrived in the UK from South Africa in 2003 on a gap year with 20kgs of stuff in a backpack. Life’s what happens when you make other plans and I’m still here 20 years later with a lot more stuff…including an ocean rowing boat! I’m now 41 years old, a proud boy mum to my two incredible sons and a wife to a very supportive husband who always has my back. I met my husband in 2008 when he moved from Edinburgh but we have settled in Bearsden, just outside Glasgow.
Tell us about She rOars:
Sabrina: We are two ordinary women from Scotland preparing to row 3000 miles in the World’s Toughest Row - Atlantic 2023 - to raise money and inspire the women of the world by our actions. We are racing a mix of teams (solo, pairs, trios, fours - men’s, women’s, and mixed teams) starting in La Gomera in the Canaries on 12th December. We will row west to Antigua in the Caribbean and it will take us 50-60 days, unsupported. Only 13 women’s pairs teams have ever completed the Atlantic Row (east to west) and only 250 women have ever rowed an ocean so it’s no mean feat, as you can imagine!
What inspired you to do this challenge across the Atlantic?
Sabrina: During lockdown I was inspired by my little brother who was preparing for an Iron Man. I needed my next challenge and adventure too. Why do I want to row across the Atlantic? Because I love adventure, the ocean and a challenge. Each adventure offers an opportunity to feel strong both physically and mentally, a chance to connect to something greater. A chance to remember the basic connection to our planet and the universe. But most of all, I want to inspire girls and women everywhere to believe that anything is possible, you just need to have the confidence to take that first step towards your dreams and live your adventure!
Leanne: I get my inspiration from all the adventurous mums who have come before me. Who are incredible parents to their kids, hold down jobs, and still turn up for themselves. These are the true masters of the juggling act!
How do you prepare for such an epic challenge?
Sabrina: First, I had to learn how to row. Leanne had done a little rowing at university. Next, we had mandatory courses to attend, Ocean Rowing Training, Navigation, First Aid, Short Radio to name a few. We also have had tons of admin to raise the funds, to purchase boat, safety equipment, food, etc. Physical training is a mix of rowing on the water, on the rowing machine and strength/ mobility training in the gym. Communication and mind set coach Cathy from the Art of Communication. We have been working towards our goal since February 2021.
How do the sponsors help?
Sabrina: Our sponsors are the backbone of the whole campaign - without out them this would still be a dream. With all our amazing sponsors like egg we were able to purchase a boat and all things to keep us safe, such as a life raft, personal location beacons, para-anchor etc.
What charities will you be helping with your fundraising?
We have chosen to partner with the Women’s Fund Scotland as the charity helps a diverse range of grassroots projects that greatly benefit the communities in which we live and work. There are over 500 projects across Scotland supported by the Charity and, at any given time, you are no more than 50 miles from a funded project. We’re also supporting The Polar Academy, an internationally recognised organisation which really delivers true life changing opportunities to the children and families impacted by bullying, bereavement and/or abuse. Lastly, we’re supporting the Mabel Foundation which is dedicated to empowering people in developing communities through education and access to sustainable menstrual care products. How will you both celebrate on completion?
Sabrina: I will celebrate with my family and friends. First food will be fresh fruit. And a celebratory Wolfcraig Gin!
Leanne: With a good nap, a rum cocktail, and a few weeks in Antigua. The lengths a girl will go to for a Caribbean holiday, right?
egg are proud sponsors of She rOars and wish them all the best. To follow their journey, visit http://she-roars.com/ or to sponsor their epic row click here.