Team ROWMADS sets world record for rowing around Great Britain
Five-person rowing crew achieves record-breaking feat in aid of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance
Team ROWMADS, a five-person crew, has set a new Guinness World Record for rowing around the coastline of Great Britain as part of the 2026 GB Row Challenge.
The crew, including Felix Wood, an RAF emergency medicine doctor and Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance clinician, completed the demanding 2,000-mile journey in 32 days, 30 minutes, and 58 seconds. They set off from Tower Bridge on 14th June 2026 and finished the row non-stop and unsupported.
Throughout the challenge, Felix focused on raising funds for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, a charity that remains close to his heart due to his previous work there.
Scientific Contributions
The rowing expedition also served an important scientific purpose. Team ROWMADS collected data on water temperature, water quality, and pollution and facilitated research into physiological adaptation, sleep, and small-team dynamics.
Felix highlighted the scientific achievements of the team, noting the collection of over 100 samples for microplastics analysis and environmental DNA testing, alongside 750 hours of hydrophone recordings for marine mammal study.
Personal Experiences
Reflecting on the journey, Felix noted, "After 32 days at sea, we were the third fastest crew ever to row around Great Britain unsupported and we've also taken home a Guinness World Record for the fastest five-person crew."
Felix recounted personal highlights and challenges, such as encountering an orca in Scotland and enduring a storm in the Irish Sea.
He expressed gratitude for the team's determination in facing these challenges, noting the support and motivation drawn from colleagues following the journey via GPS.
Charity Support
Charlotte Humber from Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance praised Felix and the team for their commitment and world-record achievement. She acknowledged Felix's choice to support the charity and appreciated the donations that have been received.
Charlotte said, "Their incredible commitment has helped shine a spotlight on the vital work we do, and we hope their achievement will inspire even more people to support our lifesaving service."
As Team ROWMADS celebrates its achievement, their efforts continue to raise awareness and funds for the charity.