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Seòmar agus comataidhean

Recognising the Achievement of Bannockburn’s Sabrina Simpson in the World’s Toughest Row

  • Submitted by: Evelyn Tweed, Stirling, Scottish National Party.
  • Date lodged: Monday, 10 February 2025
  • Motion reference: S6M-16375

That the Parliament congratulates Bannockburn pilates instructor, Sabrina Simpson, on her extraordinary achievement in successfully completing the World’s Toughest Row, a gruelling 49-day journey across the Atlantic Ocean; notes that the 45-year-old undertook this immense challenge alongside her rowing partner, Gregor Wacker of Germany, setting off from La Gomera in the Canary Islands on 11 December 2024 and arriving in Antigua on 29 January 2025; recognises what it sees as the incredible physical and mental resilience required to row in shifts of one hour on, one hour off, for nearly 50 days in challenging weather conditions; commends her determination and perseverance in training for three years to achieve this goal; understands that Sabrina and Gregor used their journey to raise funds for charitable causes in Canada, Germany and the UK, including The Polar Academy, a Forth Valley-based charity supporting 13- to 18-year-olds facing mental health challenges or struggling with self-esteem and confidence; further understands that The Polar Academy provides an intensive one-year physical and mental training programme, culminating in a winter sledge-hauling expedition in East Greenland, which transforms the mindset of the young participants while also contributing positively to the local economy; acknowledges the support and encouragement from Sabrina’s local community in Stirling and beyond, and wishes her every success in her future endeavours and adventures.


Supported by: Karen Adam, Jeremy Balfour, Colin Beattie, Miles Briggs, Stephanie Callaghan, Finlay Carson, Bob Doris, Annabelle Ewing, Murdo Fraser, Emma Harper, Bill Kidd, Fulton MacGregor, Ruth Maguire, Stuart McMillan, Marie McNair, Edward Mountain, Audrey Nicoll, Kevin Stewart, Paul Sweeney, David Torrance, Annie Wells, Tess White