Meet the team - Miriam
18th January 2024 by Miriam Payne
Back in 2019, after a freezing rowing session on the Clyde in Glasgow, I jokingly said, 'Anyone want to row an ocean with me?' Little did I know that this offhand remark would spark my interest in ocean rowing. It was more of a half-baked idea, and no one, including myself, thought much of it initially. But when I got home that evening, the thought stuck around, and I found myself digging into all things ocean rowing just to see what the fuss was about. Turns out, it's a wild world out there.
After digging into the details and doing my fair share of research, I took the plunge and registered for 'The World's Toughest Row' Atlantic race, kicking off what would become an incredible journey. The next challenge was breaking the news to my parents. Starting with Dad, his reaction was a nonchalant, "Well, I'm not that surprised, but your Mother's going to have a fit!" Yet, as the initial shock wore off and they grasped the undeniable determination I had, my parents transformed into genuine ocean rowing enthusiasts, unwavering in their belief that I could pull it off.
I wasn't the most obvious candidate for an 'ocean rower.' Hailing from a landlocked town, I hadn't even been at sea until I got my hands on an ocean rowing boat and began training with it. I spent a significant chunk of my youth dedicated to horse riding, and the various sports teams throughout my school years. It was during college that I was lucky enough to obtain a spot on a trip to climb Mount Kilimanjaro—a journey that, in retrospect, likely kick-started my appetite for adventure.
Reaching the starting line of the Atlantic race was no walk in the park. From unexpected setbacks, such as losing my pair partner which led to the pivotal decision to go solo, the path to La Gomera had many bumps in the road. However, upon finally arriving, the sense of accomplishment was monumental. The prospect of being out on the open ocean was exhilarating, not just for the sheer adventure but also because it meant a welcome break from the relentless task of sending sponsorship emails.
Jess and I connected virtually before the row, exchanging boat tips and advice through WhatsApp. Our first face-to-face encounter took place in the renowned Blue Marlin bar in La Gomera—a spot where many lasting ocean rowing friendships are forged.
Summing up the row is a challenge. It was undeniably brutal, yet absolutely brilliant. The serenity of the open ocean is indescribable; there's a unique quality that's hard to put into words. Leaving it behind was almost reluctant. For those who followed my first row, it’s probably no surprise that I caught the adventure bug.
It was a delight to find Jess still in Antigua upon my arrival. She managed to clear out most of the local bars, orchestrating a lively welcome party for me. In less than 48 hours of setting foot back on land, we found ourselves crafting lists and scheming up new challenges. The allure of returning to normality after such a monumental adventure proved elusive.
During a working trip back across the Atlantic on a super yacht, I received an intriguing message from Lottie, a friend of Jess. She proposed the idea of rowing the Atlantic as a pair in 2026. Despite my affection for the race, I wanted something to challenge me further for my next pursuit, so I wasn't initially enthusiastic. However, I agreed to hear her out. Upon finally making it home, we scheduled a chat, and right from the start, our conversation clicked, extending into a call lasting nearly 2 hours.
Upon returning home, I took the necessary time to ponder my next steps, avoiding any hasty decisions until the post-expedition blues subsided. Yet, the allure of this particular team and expedition proved irresistible. The excitement for the upcoming journey is palpable, and I can't imagine better teammates to embark on the full Pacific row with.