Rower in all-women team rescued during World’s Toughest Row

A member of an all-women team of rowers from Scotland has been rescued while taking part in a race across the Atlantic dubbed the World’s Toughest Row.

Organisers said Andrena McShane-Kerr, 42, was safely on land and being cared for by medical staff after the Scotland the Wave team activated its emergency beacon.

The chartered accountant, along with Nicky Matthews, Fiona Deakin and Heather McCallum, had set off from La Gomera in the Canary Islands on Sunday.

The rest of team plan to continue the 3,000-mile journey to Antigua in the Caribbean as a trio.

The women, who are from across Scotland, are competing against about 35 other teams in the race while raising money for charity.

Organisers said that on Wednesday night the event’s safety and medical team advised Scotland the Wave to request urgent assistance for Ms McShane-Kerr.

There no details at this stage about why Ms McShane-Kerr was rescued or her condition.

In a social media post, organisers said: “Rescue services responded immediately, and we are relieved to confirm that Andrena is now safely on land and being cared for by medical professionals.

“Her teammates Fiona, Heather and Nicola are safe and supported and will continue as a trio towards Antigua.

“We remain in close contact with Andrena and her family.”

The Scottish team come from all walks of life.

Ms Deakin is a B&B proprietor in Cromarty in the Highlands, Ms McCallum is a police officer and Ms Matthews worked in social care at Angus Council for more than 20 years.

The World’s Toughest Row Atlantic 2025 raises money for different charities.

Teams can take up 50 to 60 days to complete journey.