In an extraordinary feat of courage and determination, Team Antigua Island Girls,
an exceptional all-female rowing team from Antigua and Barbuda, and the first all-
female, black team to row across the Atlantic Ocean, have achieved another
momentous victory, that is being celebrated across the twin-island Caribbean
nation, known for its tropical climate, turquoise waters and sailing culture.
On July 23, 2023, Team Antigua Island Girls successfully navigated and rowed
across the treacherous expanse of the Pacific Ocean, the largest body of water in
the world, in support of a noble cause. Their awe-inspiring endeavour, which saw
the girls spend forty-one days at sea for the inaugural 2023 Pacific Challenge, has
not only demonstrated the power of women’s strength and resilience but also
raised funds for building a home for vulnerable girls in need.
Comprising remarkable athletes Christal Clashing, Kevinia Francis, and Samara
Emmanuel, Team Antigua Island Girls set forth on their mission to make a
profound impact on young lives. Their dedication and unwavering spirit aimed to
raise funds for a charitable cause: building a home for women in conflict with the
law, providing them with a second chance in life, and fostering women’s
empowerment.
Rowing an astonishing distance of approximately 2,800 nautical miles across the
Pacific, in ‘the world’s toughest row’, their journey began in Monterey Bay,
California, and culminated in Kauai, Hawaii. Among fourteen teams, the Team
Antigua Island Girls emerged as true champions, exemplifying the solidarity and
strength of women alongside their fellow all-women team, Row Aurora.
“Through our efforts, we hope to raise awareness about the importance of women’s
empowerment and provide a brighter future for young girls who deserve a second
chance in life,” said Kevinia Francis, representing the Team Antigua Island Girls.
The triumph of Team Antigua Island Girls has garnered widespread admiration,
with notable figures expressing their pride and support. Antigua and Barbuda’s
Minister of Tourism, Charles Fernandez, commended the team stating, “Their
dedication to raising funds for young girls in need is truly honourable, and they are
a shining example of the positive impact that sports and women’s empowerment
can have on our society.”
As witnesses to their triumph and advocates for their cause, all of Antigua and
Barbuda are urged to support the Island Girls and their noble mission. Together, all
can make a difference and turn the tides of compassion and generosity, steering
young women toward a future filled with hope, opportunity, and empowerment.
