Limerick rower nears ocean milestone

Limerick man Seán McGowan is within touching distance of becoming the first Irish-based oarsman to row solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

After more than 116 days at sea, McGowan last night crossed the line of longitude of Barbados, some 133 nautical miles from his destination, which is Antigua in the Caribbean.

The Shannon Rowing Club oarsman, who is participating in this year's Atlantic Rowing Race, is nearing the end of a 2,548 nautical mile journey from La Gomera in the Canaries to Antigua, which he began in January.

A website monitoring his progress somewhat prematurely announced last night that by crossing line of longitude of Barbados, the rower had officially become the first Irishman to row an ocean solo.

The Barbados line had in previous Atlantic races been considered the official “Atlantic Ocean Rowing Crossing Line”.

But the Ocean Rowing Society, who compile and verify records, said today McGowan must cross the line of longitude of his destination island, in this case Antigua, to be awarded the honour.

Spokeswoman Tatiana Rezva-Crutchlow said: “He is aiming for Antigua. He must go to Antigua. If he reaches the vicinity of Antigua, which looks likely at this stage, he will achieve his goal".

“Those of you in Ireland will have to wait a little bit, I’m afraid."

Members of his family are preparing to fly to Antigua to welcome him across the finish line.

McGowan’s voyage has not been without incident. Two weeks ago he almost lost everything after coming within seconds of colliding with a ship during the night.