RECORD-BREAKING oarsman Charlie Pitcher is now more than a week into his second transatlantic row.
The 50-year-old father-of-four from Felsted set off from La Gomera in the Canary Islands last Wednesday in the hope of breaking the world record for a second time.
After being forced to turn back due to high winds at the beginning of the month, Charlie and his boat, the Soma, are now well on their way into the 2,548-mile journey.
In his daily blog Charlie said: "I've been surfing at incredible speeds, the best being 14.7 knots and the spray went right over the boat. A great feeling.
He added: "On the other side of the coin, I've had some nasty shin knocks from the oars catching and it is very uncomfortable in constant wet conditions.
"My pace is looking good at the moment but I think the last of this heavy weather is due before a change in direction and strength.
"So the next week is going to be interesting."
To raise funds to get Charlie and his boat back from Barbados at the end of the trip and to contribute to the two charities for which he is raising money, his team have launched a competition.
Individuals, teams or companies can buy one of the 40 days in the calendar of Charlie's travels.
The 'owner' of the day on which the two charities receive the most donations will win prizes including a whiskey tasting evening for a party of up to 40 people.
For more information go to www.transatlanticsolo.com.
