I just completed a photo essay at the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge… "The challenge begins on 4th of December, with 17 teams from around the world. More people have been into space than have rowed the Atlantic, and it is rightly considered as one of the toughest challenges on the planet.

Since 1997 this ocean-rowing race has attracted the brave and the intrepid to pit themselves against the elements and race the 2,900 miles from La Gomera, Tenerife, to Port St Charles, Barbados.
Rowers have to cope with blisters, salt rashes, sleep deprivation and rowing in two-hour shifts around the clock for weeks on end.

Boats are seven meters long and just under two metres wide, with only a small cabin for protection against storms. All boats are equipped at the race start, and cannot take any repair, help or food and water during the crossing."

I was able to photograph both the preparation and the start of the race in December from the Canary Islands, and the first teams arriving in Barbados in mid January after their 2,550 mile journey. The images show the emotion, strength, and challenges of these incredible athletes, in this wild race.

Brian Finke

Weekend portfolio selected by Chris Boot.