12/12/2024
How does someone achieve 3 Guinness World Records? The answer is simple - not alone.
One of my favourite proverbs says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Every day, I reflect on the incredible people who made my dreams come true and helped me row across not one but two oceans.
People often say, “You must be so strong,” or “Your mental toughness is incredible.” While the finish-line flares are awe-inspiring, the truth is, I couldn’t have done any of it without the unwavering love, belief, and support of so many wonderful people. I am forever indebted to them for their generosity, encouragement, and countless contributions, financially, emotionally, and tangibly.
As I prepare for another presentation, I wanted to take a moment to share my gratitude for some of these incredible individuals who made the impossible possible and made my dreams come true, not once, but twice.
My Family:
My husband, Sam: Also acting as our Campaign Manager I truly believe you had the toughest job of all. Repairman, motivator, and my rock. Thank you for everything you've done, from endless sponsor emails, towing the boat, and keeping us on track with weekly meetings to dressing as a shark for the Christmas parade, you’ve done it all. You’ve been there for every sat-phone call, every challenge, and every triumph. I couldn't imagine just how hard it must have been not being able to just pick up the phone and call whenever you wanted. Sam, thank you for believing me, and letting me follow my dreams. You are the best husband in the world and I love you forever.
My mom, Susan: Thank you for planning events, sending gifts for us to open at sea, keeping our spirits up. Thank you for always reminding me that through God, all things are possible.
My dad, Andrew: Thank you for believing in me stroke by stroke and investing in my first row, which laid the foundation for everything to come. Thank you for coming to all of my talks even today! I wouldn't have it any other way. It's an honour to call you my dad.
My brother, Cameron: Thank you for rowing across the atlantic with me, for being not only my brother, but my hero and my best friend. One I have and always will look up to. Thank you for being a sounding board during tough moments and building and updating our website amidst everything else you had going on!
My mother-in-law, Joan: Thank you for shifting your worries to love and support, and for stepping in when we needed essential safety gear and cheering us on in every way imaginable. Thank you for also looking after Miles and Iroh when we were away! They were spoiled I am sure.
Auntie Cheryl: Thank you for creating merchandise, capturing the journey in a photo book I’ll treasure forever, and being there every step of the way. You're a ray of sunshine and so easy going and always will be part of the crew.
Uncle Kenny & Auntie Diane: Thank you for endless support, attending events, and always taking care of my mom when I was at sea.
My Friends
Julia: Thank you for voluntarily managing our social media like a pro, growing our followers to 50k, and towing the boat back with me. You did it with such a good heart, and all whilst managing your own business! You're unbelievable and a true friend. P.s you’re next!
Maddy: For creating amazing TikTok content that brought our story to life.
Russ & Brenda: Thank you for coming to the start line, attending my talks, and inspiring me to reach new heights in public speaking. Thanks for also looking after Sam at run club when I was away, and always asking about the row (even though we were slow and not much had changed haha)
Dr. Chris Thomas: Thank you for opening your home (and driveway!) to us, turning it into a boatyard and safe haven before our journey. You were the energy and love we needed before heading out into the unknown and you have no idea just how much you helped us in the ways you did! P.S best tacos ever!
John & Fran LeRoux: Thank you for organizing Rotary Club talks, rallying troops to donate, and coordinating with others to support our campaign.
Jan Harris: Thank you for organizing farmers’ market events and talks at the library, helping to spread our story and gather support.
Tim Cox: Thank you for embodying the spirit of ocean rowing and inspiring us through your unwavering passion and dedication. So excited to be finally cheering you on this December! Go smash it!!
Coach Stephen: Thank you for instilling in me a love for competition, adventure, and rowing during my time at Clemson, and for believing in me every step of the way.
Nicky Price: Thank you for dedicating so much time to capturing our journey - from the highs and lows to the preparation and the finish line - and sharing it with the radio and the local Gloucestershire community.
Land Crew
Duncan: Thank you for coming all the way to Florida and teaching me how to row across an ocean with skill, grit, and fun. Thank you for showing me what it means to be a true leader.
Dawn: For being the team’s third member and lifting our spirits no matter the storm.
Ian: As safety officer, you’ve helped countless crews, yet you made our experience feel personal and special. Your wisdom, encouragement, and calm guidance have been invaluable. Thank you for being the voice on the end of the phone always knowing what to say, how to react and listening no matter what. You are what made dreams come true.
Everyone Else
To my teammate Jenny's family, everyone who contributed, our 250 club members, people we met at events, along the way, supporters, followers, those who gave whether financially, emotionally, or through kind words - your support has not gone unnoticed. You made dreams come true, and for that, I thank you with all my heart.
To everyone mentioned here and those I may have missed: You’ve been the catalyst, and I am forever grateful.
With all my love,
Anna McLean Joynson - December 2024
