Oars of Thunder Return: Looe RNLI and Rowing Club Celebrate Atlantic Triumph

Published On: 23 February 2025Last Updated: 23 February 2025By CornishStuff

Looe turned out in force to celebrate the incredible achievement of the Oars of Thunder crew, who successfully completed a 3,000-mile transatlantic row. The town’s RNLI volunteer crews and Looe Rowing Club joined forces on the water to welcome home the team, recognising their record-breaking effort in one of the world’s toughest endurance races.

Looe Lifeboats Escort Home the Champions

On Saturday, 22nd February 2025, at the end of their morning training exercise, Looe RNLI’s Atlantic 85 and D Class inshore lifeboats joined three Looe Rowing Club gigs in a special escort for the Oars of Thunder crew. The flotilla made its way through Looe’s waters, marking the crew’s return from the World’s Toughest Row, which saw them row across the Atlantic in a remarkable 40 days, 16 hours, and 48 minutes.

The team, made up of Sally Crabb, Kim Tolfery, Harry Poulson, and Nathaniel Rothwell, left San Sebastián de la Gomera, Canary Islands, on 11th December 2024, battling through the gruelling challenge to reach Nelson’s Dockyard, Antigua & Barbuda. Not only did they cross the finish line as winners of the mixed crew class, but they also placed 5th in the fours and 6th overall in the fleet.

A Heroic Journey at Sea

The team’s journey wasn’t just about the race. In the midst of their crossing, they stopped in the Atlantic to rescue a turtle trapped in netting, showcasing the same spirit of bravery and care for life at sea that has defined their mission. Throughout the challenge, they also raised funds for the RNLI while promoting the lifesaving work of the charity.

Nathaniel, a volunteer with Looe RNLI for over 12 years, was joined by fellow Looe Rowing Club members Sally, Kim, and Harry in their record-setting row. To honour their success, the club rowed three gigs from Millpool slipway downriver, with Nathaniel, Kim, and Harry taking the cox positions, while Sally rowed in the lead gig.

Celebrations Along the Quay

As the boats passed the lower ferry steps, crowds gathered along the quaysides to cheer on the returning rowers. In a show of respect and recognition, the rowers raised their oars to acknowledge the moment.

After the gigs and lifeboats were recovered at Looe Lifeboat Station, the celebrations continued with refreshments at Looe Sailing Club, where friends, family, and supporters gathered to honour the team’s achievement.

Their record-breaking crossing, dedication to ocean conservation, and fundraising for the RNLI have cemented the Oars of Thunder crew’s place in Looe’s maritime history.