ATLANTIC ROW 2026

COASTAL COMMANDERS

We are the Coastal Commanders - a team of three commercial airline captains competing in the World's Toughest Row 2026. We are swapping the flight deck for the boat deck and taking on this extreme challenge to prove that anything is possible.

THE CHALLENGE

We are rowing 3000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean.

We want to break the current trio world record of 35 days.

OUR MISSION

To inspire and motivate people to lead active lives and overcome life’s challenges.

We want to raise £150,000 for our charity partners:

Our Charity Partners will be announced soon.

PARTNERS

We offer potential partners the opportunity to support our campaign and access to a huge global audience.

Become a part of our exciting journey.

FOLLOW.

Throwback to our first meet-up last year—Jon’s debut on the erg and our first attempt at rowing in sync.

Safe to say, the form needed some serious work!

Thankfully, we’re now working with the expert at @ocean_ready_ to get us shipshape.

Here’s to progress and leaving this very average technique behind! 💪

#OceanRowing #Teamwork #CoastalCommanders #RowingJourney

The 2024 race leaders, @teamrow4cancer , have less than 300nm to go and should reach land in just a few days. Our boat, FREEDOM, is holding strong and has climbed into 5th place under the power of @atlanticexploarers. It’s the final stretch now for the leading crews 💪

#OceanRowing #RowToWin #TeamFreedom #AtlanticChallenge #RowHard #Endurance #OceanAdventure #FinalPush

Week 1 of Training with Gus: Complete! 💪

We’ve just wrapped up our first week of training with the incredible @ocean_ready_ and it’s been intense!
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This week, we’ve focused on big compound movements like squats, deadlifts, and lunges to build strength and endurance. We’re also slowly increasing the time we spend on the rowing machines, preparing our bodies for the challenge ahead.
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It’s all about nailing the basics, staying consistent, and recovering smart. The road ahead is tough, but we’re ready to tackle it head-on.
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Bring on week 2!

#CoastalCommanders #AtlanticRow #TrainingWithGus #RowForACause #WorldsToughestRow #oceanrowing

5K Your Way Challenge: Week 1 Complete!

We are taking on the ERDINGER Alkoholfrei 5K Your Way Challenge, and we’re proud to support @moveagainstcancercharity through this amazing initiative. 💙
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This was week 1 of the challenge, and we decided to hit the rowing machine—because what better way to prepare for the Atlantic? But this challenge isn’t about speed; it’s about getting up, getting out, and getting moving.
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Every step, stroke, or pedal makes a difference, and we’re thrilled to contribute to Move Against Cancer’s mission of empowering people through movement.
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Why not join in and take on the challenge yourself? Together, we can make an impact, one 5K at a time.

#5KYourWay #ErdingerAlkoholfrei #MoveAgainstCancer #KeepMoving #WorldsToughestRow #AtlanticCampaigns #OceanRowing #rowforacause

🌊 Meet Martin: Our Expedition Specialist! 🚣‍♂️

Martin brings a wealth of experience to the team, having climbed some of the highest mountains in Africa and Asia. Most recently, he summited the 8th highest mountain in the world, a project that took years of hard work and preparation.
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Having spent days in isolation on remote mountains, Martin knows how to stay mentally tough and keep morale high in challenging conditions—skills he’s ready to share with the team during their Atlantic crossing as they compete in the @worlds.toughest.row. Combined with his immense strength (earning him the nickname Mr. Gorilla Man 🦍💪), Martin will be a driving force in powering the boat through the waves.
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Martin is driven by a desire to inspire others to push beyond their limits and raise awareness and funds for @younglivesvscancer and @moveagainstcancercharity, two charities close to the team’s heart.

#worldstoughestrow #atlanticcampaigns #wtr2026 #rannochadventure #oceanrowing #oceanrowers #row #younglivesvscancer #moveagainstcancer

Meet Scott: Our Handyman Extraordinaire! 🔧🚴‍♂️

Scott is the team’s go-to guy for anything and everything mechanical. Before earning his wings, he qualified as an electrician and spent his weekends racing motocross and tearing up trails on his mountain bike. Whether it’s fixing things, building things, or just tinkering for fun, Scott’s always got it covered.
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Scott has recently put himself through some seriously tough challenges, including several Special Forces test marches and functional fitness events. Oh, and just for fun, he also completed the Round the Rock Ultra Marathon, running the almost 50 miles around his home island of Jersey like it was no big deal. 🏃‍♂️💥
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With his practical skills, racing background, and sheer determination, Scott is more than ready to take on the Atlantic. He’s eager to get to the start line and raise awareness for @younglivesvscancer and @moveagainstcancercharity , two charities that inspire him to push beyond his limits.
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#worldstoughestrow #atlanticcampaigns #wtr2026 #rannochadventure #oceanrowing #oceanrowers #rowing #younglivesvscancer #moveagainstcancer

🌊 Meet Jon: Our Endurance Specialist! 🚴‍♂️🏃‍♂️

Jon is the team’s endurance powerhouse, with over 15 years of triathlon and adventure racing experience. As a highly regarded triathlon coach, he knows exactly how to push limits and get the very best out of people. Whether he’s on a bike or out running, Jon is completely in his element—and now, he’s ready to bring that same endurance and drive to the Atlantic crossing as part of the @worlds.toughest.row
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In 2019, Jon’s mental and physical resilience was tested to the limit when he was diagnosed with stage 2 testicular cancer. But true to his nature, he fought back, proving that no matter what life throws at you, you can overcome it and come back stronger than ever.
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Jon is taking on this epic row to raise funds and awareness for @younglivesvscancer and @moveagainstcancercharity two incredible charities making a difference in people’s lives. Also, fun fact: Jon is known to have the biggest calf muscles known to man—perfect for powering through those waves! 💪
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#worldstoughestrow #atlanticcampaigns #wtr2026 #rannochadventure #oceanrowing #oceanrowers #rowing #younglivesvscancer #moveagainstcancer

We Can Officially Say We’re Rowing the Atlantic Next Year! 🌊🚣‍♂️
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It’s official—the Coastal Commanders are taking on the Atlantic Ocean in 2026! Over 3,000 miles of open water stand between us and the finish line, and we’re ready to face the challenge.
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But this isn’t just about adventure—it’s about making a difference. We’re rowing to raise awareness and funds for @younglivesvscancer and @moveagainstcancercharity two incredible charities. We also want to inspire everyone to get active and join us in making waves for a good cause!
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What’s Next?
💪 Training Begins in January: Our training officially kicks off with @ocean_ready_ , an experienced Atlantic rower and PT who will help prepare us for the demands of rowing up to 16 hours a day.
🎉 Charity Events: Stay tuned for exciting updates, including a 24-hour row challenge to raise funds and awareness.
🚣‍♂️ The Boat: We’ll be picking up our ocean rowing boat in April from @rannochadventure —our home for this epic journey!
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Follow our journey as we prepare for this adventure of a lifetime. Together, we can make a real difference!

#CoastalCommanders #AtlanticRow #rowforchange #rannochadventure #worldstoughestrow

As the 2024 teams approach their final day of rowing this year and prepare to welcome the New Year, 8 boats have already passed the halfway mark!

Our boat, FREEDOM, is performing exceptionally well, with the @atlanticexploarers holding an impressive 6th place overall 💪 🌊

Wishing all the teams a safe and strong finish as they head into 2025. Keep pushing forward! 🚣‍♂️✨

🎄 Merry Christmas from the Coastal Commanders!
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Wishing all our friends, family, supporters and the teams competing in the 2024 @worldstoughestrow a very Merry Christmas! 🎅🎁 As we celebrate this festive season, we want to take a moment to thank everyone who has supported us so far on our journey to the Atlantic.
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Your encouragement, generosity, and belief in our mission mean the world to us. As we look ahead to 2026, we’re more motivated than ever to take on this incredible challenge and make a difference for @younglivesvscancer and @moveagainstcancercharity.

So, from our crew to yours, we hope your day is filled with love, laughter, and maybe a mince pie or two! 🎄✨ Here’s to an exciting year ahead—we can’t wait to share it with you!
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Stay safe, stay warm, and keep dreaming big!
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#MerryChristmas #CoastalCommanders #AtlanticRow

🌊 Partnering with Dom at Dine Out Meals! 🚣‍♂️🍴
We’re excited to announce that Dom from Dine Out Meals is joining our Atlantic rowing journey!
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Not only will Dom provide us with the nutrition-packed meals we need to sustain our energy, but as a former Atlantic crosser himself, he brings invaluable experience and advice for life at sea.
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💥 Fueling 6,000 Calories a Day: Each of us will burn an incredible 6,000 calories daily during the crossing—that’s the equivalent of 12 cheeseburgers, 15 large pizzas, or 60 bananas every single day! Thanks to Dom’s expertise, we’ll have the right meals to power through every wave.
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Check out more about Dine Out Meals at www.dineoutmeals.com or follow them on Instagram: @dineoutmeals
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We’re thrilled to have Dom as part of the team as we prepare for the adventure ahead!

#CoastalCommanders #AtlanticRow #RowForChange #dineoutmeals #worldstoughestrow #wtr2026

🎄✈️ Touching down in Lapland!

Bringing festive cheer as families head off in search of Santa, just in time for Christmas. Hopefully it’s warmer where we’re going on our big adventure in 2026!

#FlightToLapland #LaplandAdventure #CoastalCommanders

🚣‍♂️ Training with the Best: Gus Barton 🏋️‍♂️

📣 We’re thrilled to announce that we’re being trained by the @ocean_ready_ by Gus Barton to prepare for our Atlantic crossing 🌊💪 Gus is an experienced Ocean Rower, fitness expert, and someone who knows exactly what it takes to conquer the world’s toughest challenges. With his guidance, we’re building the strength, endurance, and resilience needed to tackle every wave the Atlantic throws our way.

Gus’s expertise goes far beyond fitness – he’s been there, done it, and is now helping teams like ours bulletproof ourselves for success. 🚀

Want to know more about his incredible work? Check out his website: gusbartonfitness.com/ocean-rowing

Stay tuned for updates on our training, milestones, and a behind-the-scenes look at the hard work going into this challenge. Let’s do this! 💥

#AtlanticRow2026 #CoastalCommanders #OceanRowing #GusBartonFitness #PushYourLimits #RowForACause

📆 Why 2026? 🚣‍♂️🌊

We’ve been asked, “Why wait until 2026 for the big row?” And trust us—it’s not because we’re procrastinating! Preparing to row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic takes time, teamwork, and a lot of planning.

From training on and off the water to fundraising for our cancer charities, @younglivesvscancer and @moveagainstcancercharity, every step we take now gets us closer to the adventure of a lifetime.

Here’s what we’ve been up to so far: ✔️ Buying our boat, Freedom. ✔️ Building strength—physically and mentally. ✔️ Starting our fundraising journey towards £150,000. ✔️ Completing our pre-requisite RYA training courses.

In 2025, we’ll take Freedom out on the water to truly prepare for life at sea. By 2026, we’ll be ready to face the Atlantic and turn this journey into a force for good.

Follow our journey as the Coastal Commanders and find out why every minute of preparation is worth the wait.

Read our latest blog to learn more about why 2026 is the year we take on the Atlantic!

#CoastalCommanders #WorldsToughestRow #Why2026 #AtlanticRowing #OceanAdventure #CharityRow #YoungLivesvsCancer #moveagainstcancer

We’re absolutely thrilled to share that @oceanbottle has generously donated personalised hydration bottles to our team! Their support will keep us hydrated during our training and adventures but also reflects our shared commitment to sustainability.
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Ocean Bottle is a brilliant organisation dedicated to tackling plastic pollution. They create reusable bottles using recycled materials, and for every bottle sold, they fund the collection of 11.4kg of ocean-bound plastic – the equivalent of 1,000 plastic bottles! Their mission is to protect our oceans while promoting sustainability, and we’re proud to be part of their journey.
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A huge thank you to @oceanbottle for their generosity and for helping us make a positive impact, both on and off the water.
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Visit https://oceanbottle.co to learn more about their incredible work.

#ThankYou #OceanBottle #Sustainability #CoastalCommanders #ProtectOurOceans
#WTR2026
#Oceanrowing
#atlanticcampaigns

🌊 “If in doubt, head south.” 🌊

The 2024 fleet is underway, with many teams taking a southerly route to dodge a low-pressure system and pick up strong southwesterly currents. This strategic move sets them up for more favorable weather conditions across the Atlantic.

It’s only 24 hours into the race, but already some fascinating tactics are unfolding as teams make their moves. For us, it’s a valuable opportunity to learn as we prepare for our own crossing in two years’ time.

Follow the fleet’s progress on the YB Races app and see how their strategies unfold.

#AtlanticChallenge #OceanRowing #SouthTrackStrategy #LearningForTheFuture #CoastalCommanders

Pretty happy with yesterday’s effort! Held it together with a gradual decline rather than a full blow-up. Cramp hit hard (despite all the electrolytes!)—even got hit with double hamstring cramp when I stopped for a family with a wheelchair crossing the course 😤 (can’t be too annoyed at that, I guess!).

Finished in 3:09—not quite sub-3, but training went so well that I know there’s more in the tank. No blisters, no chafe, no injuries—just my super salty sweat kiboshing the sub-3 attempt again. A solid time and plenty to build on for the next challenge. 👌

#valenciamarathon #running #marathon #raceday #spain

Start line scouted—ready for tomorrow. Let’s do it. 💪

#MaratónValencia #marathon #valencia #running #raceready

Last tune-up session done—much warmer than Bristol! Time to relax and soak it all in before race day on Sunday. 🇪🇸

#run #sun #valenciamarathon

***Spotlight on oars!*** 🔦
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In a crossing without engine or sails, the oars are the critical piece to convert our human power into forward momentum. Most people know what an oar does, but the ones we'll use on our row are a little different to the average river rowing oars. 🤔
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Firstly, our oars are designed to be used on either side. Normally in a river boat you'll have a left hand oar and a right hand oar, and whilst we will label our oars as port side and starboard sided, if one breaks and we have no spares left, we can easily just use our a spare right hand oar on the left hand side. Simple designs like this are present throughout the boat and the kit we take, everything needs to be simple, strong, and easy to fix. 🛠️
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Another important element of our oars is their strength. The Atlantic ocean is incredibly powerful, and whilst it would be impossible to create an oar that will withstand ANYTHING the Atlantic has to throw at it, we can make sure they'll withstand MOST of what the Atlantic is dealing out! 🥊
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With that in mind, our oars have been built from carbon fibre (about five times stronger and lighter than the equivalent steel), which is reinforced further with kevlar (the synthetic element of bullet proof vests). Safe to say then, these are incredibly strong. 💪
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Despite the strength, the Atlantic will always be stronger, and so the liklihood of us snapping an oar, during our crossing is quite high. To counter this we'll carry spare oars, which as we explained earlier can be used on either side. 👍
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The final thing about our oars is that they're very long, at over 3 metres each. This means that when we're rowing we take up quite a lot of space; whilst the boat is less than 2 metres wide, from oar tip to oar tip, we're 7 metres wide! 😯
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📸 @worlds.toughest.row
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#worldstoughestrow #atlantic2026 #atlanticcampaigns #wtr2026 #ranochadventure #oceanrowing #oceanrowers #rowing #r45 #rannoch #oars

No matter the weather, rain or shine, it’s not about waiting for perfect conditions. We get up, show up, and do what needs to be done. Consistency and commitment—that’s how progress is made. Let’s keep pushing.

#NoExcuses #Concept2 #WorldsToughestRow #KeepPushing #RowingLife #wtr2026 #coastalcommanders

What a week! It’s been non-stop training, but every step is bringing us closer to our goal – even if there are still two years to go! 💪 We’ve successfully completed the RYA courses, including First Aid, Sea Survival, Essential Navigation & Seamanship, and the Marine Radio SRC course with Tim and Charlie from @seasports_southwest . Plus, we tackled the Ocean Rowing course delivered by Ian Couch, Head Safety Officer from @worlds.toughest.row 🌊
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It’s been intense, but we’re feeling more prepared and motivated than ever. And it was great to spend the week with the team – we’re stronger together! 🙌
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Big thanks to all the incredible instructors for their guidance and expertise. Two years may seem like a long road, but we’re one step closer to crossing that finish line!
#TrainingComplete #OceanRowing #RYA #Seamanship #SeaSurvival #Navigation #MarineRadio #OceanAdventures #OnTheWater #CloserToTheGoal #Rowing #AdventureAwaits #SeaSports #AtlanticCampaigns #Teamwork

🌊 OUR CAUSE 🌊

We’re gearing up for the challenge of a lifetime: rowing across the Atlantic Ocean to support Young Lives vs Cancer and Move Against Cancer—two incredible charities providing life-changing support to those affected by cancer.

Right now, we’re focused on securing the funding needed to make this epic adventure possible. Once we’re fully ready, we’ll launch our fundraising efforts, with 100% of donations going directly to these amazing causes.

Stay tuned for updates on our preparation, fundraising announcements, and how you can get involved. Together, we can make waves in the fight against cancer!

📲 Learn more at coastalcommanders.com

#RowAgainstCancer #YoungLivesVsCancer #MoveAgainstCancer #CoastalCommanders #AtlanticChallenge #makeadifference

🌊 We completed the Essential Sea Survival Course with @SeaSportsSouthwest, another key step in preparing for the World’s Toughest Row 2026! 🌊
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This course covered it all – from learning survival techniques to handling emergency situations and getting hands-on with life rafts and safety gear. 🛟
Our team practiced the drills, strengthened our skills, and boosted our confidence for whatever the ocean throws at us.
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It was eye opening and every lesson brings us closer to being fully prepared for this adventure. Now we feel even more ready to tackle the Atlantic and face the challenges head-on! 💪

#WorldsToughestRow #SeaSurvival #OceanRowing #Teamwork #AtlanticChallenge

🚣‍♂️ Thrilled to be starting our RYA courses with Tim at @seasports_southwest. Every session is packed with insights and practical skills that are essential for our rowing journey.
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Tim’s expertise and passion make learning both fun and challenging, preparing us for what the open waters will throw at us.
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🌊💪 This training is a huge step toward our #WorldsToughestRow adventure. Bring on the skills, teamwork, and growth! Be prepared - start early.
#RYA #SeaSportsSouthwest #RowingJourney #RowingPreparation #Teamwork #oceanrowing #wtr2026

🌊 We are proud to announce our second charity! 🌊

As we gear up for our 2026 Atlantic Rowing Campaign, we’re excited to support MOVE Against Cancer alongside Young Lives vs Cancer.

@moveagainstcancercharity is dedicated to encouraging individuals impacted by cancer to embrace movement and maintain their physical and mental well-being. This mission resonates deeply with our team, especially Jon, who experienced firsthand how staying active helped him navigate his cancer journey in 2019. His story fuels our commitment to inspire others facing similar challenges. 💪

As we prepare for the World’s Toughest Row, our goal is to raise vital funds for MOVE and show that movement can empower those in their fight against cancer. Our charity fundraising for MOVE and Young Lives vs Cancer will go live in 2025, and we can’t wait to share this journey with you!

Head to www.coastalcommanders.com to find out more about our campaign and how you can contribute to this impactful cause.

Together, we can make a difference!

#CoastalCommanders #WorldsToughestRow #MOVEAgainstCancer #AtlanticRow2026 #CancerAwareness #rowforacause

🚣‍♂️ Our latest blog shares a straightforward look at our 24-hour row at sea back in the spring. 🌊
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Guided by @duncroy1 🤙🏻we experienced the endurance and focus it takes to keep going on the open water. Check out our recap and lessons learned – link in bio.

#CoastalCommanders #RowingJourney #OpenWater #WorldsToughestRow #WTR2026 #AtlanticCampaigns
#AtlanticRow2026 @meadster49 @jon.reilly @s_dingle59

🌊 Big News from Coastal Commanders! 🌊

We are proud to announce our commitment to supporting two incredible cancer charities, the first of which is Young Lives vs Cancer. This remarkable charity does everything possible to support young people and families facing the terrifying challenges of childhood cancer—offering emergency financial help, free family accommodation near treatment centres, and mental health support when they need it most. @younglivesvscancer provides families with stability during the hardest days of their lives, ensuring they never feel alone.

As parents, we find the thought of a young child and their family facing cancer especially heart-wrenching. Jon, our teammate, was diagnosed with cancer in 2019 and knows the power of support networks and the importance of help during recovery.

We’re rowing across the Atlantic to raise awareness and funds to make this charity’s support possible for more families. Every donation, big or small, brings hope and relief when it’s needed most.

Want to be a part of it?

Head to www.coastalcommanders.com to join our mission. Our charity fundraising will go live in 2025, so stay tuned for updates! Together, we’ll row for a cause that truly makes a difference. 💪🌊

#CoastalCommanders #WorldsToughestRow #YoungLivesVsCancer #AtlanticRow2026 #RowForACause #fightcancer

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ATLANTIC ROW 2026

COASTAL COMMANDERS

THE CHALLENGE

OUR MISSION

PARTNERS

FOLLOW.

​

COASTAL COMMANDERS

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