Team Astro to Atlantic cemented their place in this year’s Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge as they received their boat for their Atlantic crossing last weekend but it was a sad day for Gemma Harvey who has had to drop out due to a knee injury.

Gemma has been replaced by Emily Read, the official reserve and Louise Read’s daughter. The arrival of their new vessel was a monumental moment for the team who have been raising funds and seeking sponsorship for the last eight months to reach this point. The team will be rowing in a Rannoch R45 Boat built in 2017 which has just completed its first crossing with Team Wight Lightning, an all men’s team from the Isle of Wight in an impressive time of 37 days.

The team spent the weekend under Wight Lightning’s guidance, launching the boat in Salcombe. At just 9 meters by 1.8 meters in size, living conditions are somewhat cramped on board, with two cabins at either end allowing just enough room to squeeze two people in at one time if necessary.

Predominantly, the team will row using two rowing positions in pair shift patterns to manage their routine of two hours on, two hours off during their 90-day 3000-mile voyage in the 23 -foot rowing boat.

The boat will be moored in Salcombe over the summer and the team will be out training on the water over the next few months. The girls have a lot to learn in terms of the kit and equipment that the boat includes and will be spending many hours learning the ins and outs of their new vessel.

The entire boat fleet for the race will be shipped in November to the race start line in La Gomera in the Canaries in readiness for the start of the race on December 12.

Chloe Harvey said: “The team would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has supported our challenge so far and helped us to reach this point. We are still seeking sponsorship and if you fancy seeing your company name on the side of our boat, head to our website to find out more.” www.astro-to-atlantic.co.uk