ABC Far North

SOLO ROWER ARRIVES AT TRINITY BEACH AFTER 336 DAYS AT SEA

June 8th, 2019

American fighter pilot turned adventurer, Jacob Hendrickson, stood on land for the first time in nearly a year after rowing solo from Washington State across the Pacific Ocean to Australia.

He was meant to arrive at Yorkeys Knob but a strong southerly and rough conditions prevented him from turning into the marina.

He pretty much "careened" onto Trinity Beach instead so he could claim his world record for the longest, non-stop unassisted row across the Pacific.

Locals then helped push him back out to sea and the Volunteer Coastguard escorted him to Yorkeys Knob where he was cheered by the waiting crowd and greeted by the 'King of the Knob'.

Mr Hendrickson's hands were covered in blisters and he struggled to remain steady on his sea legs.

"I feel amazing. I feel tired but I feel elated that I'm actually here on land finally. It feels so weird on stable ground once again," he said.

He said the journey was aimed at raising awareness and funds to help developing countries access clean water, and also figuring out how he wanted to live his life.

"I would say that it was like I was in a weird time vortex that was filled with all kinds of different animals and sea creatures and self reflection and allowed for me to learn more about myself, learn more about the world and help me set a new direction in my life for the future."

Mr Hendrickson said he was looking forward to a hot meal and beers after nearly a year of mainly freeze-dried meals.

What a journey! Congratulations!