S4E17 - Horizon Racing USA Seeks Adventure and World Record on the World’s Toughest Row

The World's Toughest Row is a 2,800-mile race across the Pacific Ocean. On June 12, 2024, more than 20 teams will leave Monterey, CA and race to Kauai, HI in unsupported, man-powered ocean rowing boats.

Hannah Huppi (NORC), Phil Doyle (PBC), and Hunter Deuel (OWRC) formed Horizon Racing USA to take on this massive rowing challenge. They are solidly into their planning and training with a goal of breaking the Mixed 4x World Record for rowing across the Mid-Pacific ocean – which currently stands at just over 34 days.

We talk about lots of steady state training on the erg, star-gazing and the unknown, competitive drive, Cheez-Its, and fundraising for Laureus Sport For Good USA.

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QUICK LOOK

00:00 - intro

02:00 - Welcome and The Huddle

03:20 - Rate Your rowing week: 1 to 10

05:04 - The Hot Seat Q&A

08:33 - Rowing origin stories: Hannah, Phil, Hunter

14:13 - About the World’s Toughest Row across the Pacific

15:50 - About their 4-person Ranoch RX45 boat

18:20 - Whose  idea was it to row the WTR; finding a fourth crewmate, necessary skills, and the importance of coming together as a competitive unit

28:56 - Supporting their charity partner Laureus Sport for Good USA

31:20 - Sponsorship opportunities and Hannah’s hopes for Cheez Its

33:24 - How training started, what they’re looking forward to, and what they’re nervous about 

40:40 - Letting go of flatwater perfection, thinking BIG intervals, and canned peaches for celebrating milestones

46:15 - The adventure of a lifetime and leaving an impact on the next generation

50:10 - Sign Off

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To see photos of Hannah, Phil, an Hunter, and get links to the people, clubs, and events mentioned in this episode, check out the show notes on our website.

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This episode was made possible in part by Barb, Breakwater Realty, Concept2, EB5 Investors, RowSource, and our Patrons.