Metro - Making waves... 5ft mum’s solo Atlantic row

By Elizabeth Hunter - Metro

A 5ft tall mum is set to take on a giant rowing challenge.

Milli Abrams is hoping to become the shortest and lightest person to complete the 3,000-mile ‘World’s Toughest Row’ solo, traveling from La Gomera in the Canary Islands to English Harbour in Antigua.

The 48-year-old sailed the Atlantic with her husband and son 14 years ago, but said:

“I’d always craved doing a crossing that was a bit more character-building.”

After suffering from long COVID, and inspired by a friend who completed his own row, she bought a second-hand boat from Liz Wardley, who last year broke the world record for the fastest solo woman to complete the race by 15 days.

“There’s a lot to do. I’ve been on a lot of training courses and had to learn how to use new equipment. At the same time, I’ve been running my business,” said Abrams.

She has renamed her boat ‘Knitannia’, paying tribute to her love of knitting and her business, Tribe Yarns.

During her row, which begins on December 12, she will face storms, 40ft waves, and even the threat of marlin strikes damaging her boat.

“There are sharks – but I’m not as worried about the sharks,” she added.

Ms. Abrams, from East Neuk in Fife, will be raising funds for the environmental charity The 2 Minute Foundation and Children’s Hospices Across Scotland (CHAS).

“I’m hoping to have a bit of time to reflect and slow down a bit,” she said.

Image Credit: Metro

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