The Arabian Ocean Rowing team, comprising three courageous UAE residents, has concluded their last training at Ski Dubai in readiness for their pioneering journey across the Arctic Ocean. Toby Gregory, Orlagh Dempsey, and Andrew Savill were at the indoor ski facility, Ski Dubai in Mall of the Emirates, to adapt to the severe cold conditions they will encounter during their 1,500km voyage.
In collaboration with the UN Environment Programme Clean Seas initiative, the Arctic Challenge will involve the crew navigating through tough terrains in an eight-meter boat called Ocean Guardian, which is devoid of an engine, motor, or sail. The team will row continuously from Tromso, Norway, to Longyearbyen, Svalbard, solely relying on their physical prowess. Upon successful completion, they will be the first trio to row the Arctic Ocean, with Orlagh Dempsey becoming the first woman to accomplish this milestone.
Toby Gregory of the Arabian Ocean Rowing Team expressed his thanks, stating, "My team and I are profoundly thankful to all who have supported the Arctic Challenge and our mission to heighten awareness about environmental sustainability and plastic pollution. We are especially appreciative of Ski Dubai for hosting our final training session with real snow in the UAE, as we gear up for a rowing expedition in one of the planet's coldest and most isolated regions. Together, we can dare to dream and create a significant impact for future generations."
