From Formby to the Finish Line in Antigua: Stuart Kershaw Takes on One of the World’s Toughest Challenges

Formby Bubble
4 minutes ago
2 min read

Formby has plenty to be proud of this week. Stuart Kershaw, a local lad from our village, has just completed one of the most extreme endurance events on the planet, the World’s Toughest Row, rowing 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean.

Stuart was part of Team Seas Life 🇬🇧, alongside Julian, Oliver and Tom. After 38 days and 4 hours at sea, the team crossed the finish line in Antigua, having rowed non-stop from La Gomera in the Canary Islands. No engine. No sail. Just four people, a boat, and the open ocean.

This isn’t just any race. The World’s Toughest Row is widely regarded as one of the hardest endurance challenges on Earth. Crews face towering waves, relentless heat, salt sores, exhaustion, and long nights rowing in total darkness, often in two-hour shifts, 24 hours a day. Equipment failures, storms and physical strain are all part of the challenge, and mental resilience is just as important as physical strength.

Out of 43 teams, 114 rowers and 20 nations, Team Seas Life pushed on day after day, driven by something bigger than themselves. Their journey helped raise awareness and funds for five incredible charities:

Matt Hampson Foundation,

The Clocktower Foundation,

Alan Shearer Foundation,

My Name’5 Doddie

Cure Parkinson’s

Each stroke across the Atlantic carried the stories and hopes of people whose lives have been affected by spinal injuries, MND, Parkinson’s and disability turning an extraordinary physical challenge into something deeply meaningful.

The moment the team arrived in Antigua was emotional and unforgettable, broadcast live to supporters around the world. If you missed it, the full arrival can be watched back via the World’s Toughest Row YouTube channel.

For Formby, this is a powerful reminder of what people from our community can achieve. From local streets to the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, Stuart’s journey shows that determination, teamwork and purpose can carry you further than you ever imagine.

Massive congratulations to Stuart and the entire Team Seas Life, an incredible achievement, and one Formby will be talking about for a long time!