US Woman Breaks Speed Record Rowing Solo to Hawaii
Kelsey Pfendler rowed solo from California to Hawaii. She is a Grand Canyon river guide.
Pfendler became the first US woman to row solo across the mid-Pacific. She also broke the overall speed record.
The previous record was 52 days and was held by a man. Pfendler finished in 43 days, 17 hours and 55 minutes.
The journey was over 2,400 miles long. She left from Monterey, California.
She arrived at Honolulu harbor on Friday night. Her 21-foot rowboat is named Lily.
Hundreds of people gathered in Honolulu to cheer her arrival. She is also the youngest woman to complete this crossing.
Klear Note — Solo ocean rowing is extremely difficult and dangerous. Only a few people attempt this crossing each year.
Key Terms 2
- mid-Pacific The middle stretch of the Pacific Ocean between the US and Hawaii
- solo Alone, with no other people helping on the boat