Charlie Martell: Pacific 2012 challenger
At 2051BST on 4th May 2012, double Guinness World Record holder Charlie Martell departed Choshi, Japan, to row solo and unsupported for 4,500 miles across the North Pacific to San Francisco, USA. He set out to raise funds for three charities, and hoped to set new world records:
- fastest crossing of the North Pacific Ocean
- first unsupported row across the Pacific Ocean
- first solo Briton to make the crossing
Charlie was at sea for 36 days, 1 hour and 33 minutes, before being rescued by MV Last Tycoon after Tropical Storm Mawar compromised the integrity of his boat, Blossom. Mawar was ‘uncharted territory’ for an ocean rowing boat and it is testament to the quality of Global Boatworks’ skills that Blossom remained intact, protecting Charlie.
Total distance rowed: 629.4nm
For the full statistics on the voyage, go to the Pacific 2012 stats page
LATEST BLOG 26th June 2012
It’s been over two weeks since you were last updated and that was with the news that I was safely aboard MV Last Tycoon. Even though the weather conditions were still not good, Captain Kornilov and his crew managed to recover Blossom, my boat, from the Ocean. My praises go to the Captain and his crew.
Twelve days on board the Last Tycoon, a relatively sterile environment, gave me some time to reflect on my voyage from Choshi, up to and including my rescue from the Pacific Ocean. The questions I asked myself are similar to those the media have asked me since I have returned to the UK – the main question being, “Will you try again?”
My answer remains, “It’s too early to say.” Blossom is currently on her way back to the UK; when she arrives, we’ll wait to learn if she is fully repairable. I will also need to discuss my options with my sponsors.
I arrived back in the UK on Friday 22nd June and then spent a very enjoyable weekend with my sister and brother-in-law and also spent some time with my god-daughter, Eliza Blossom. It is great to be back and I do look forward to catching up with more friends in due course.
I am truly grateful for all your support; it’s amazing to have read through the sheer volume of messages. Fear not, I will keep you all updated!
This weekend, I will be joining Toe in The Water, for the annual Round The Island Race – wish us luck! www.roundtheisland.org.uk
We’ve a newsletter. During the voyage, it was called Pacific Specific. The next issue might be under a different name – but it will contain news that you won’t want to miss…don’t be shy, sign up here now!
Thanks to the spammers, we’ve had to disable comments on this page. With any luck, we’ll find a way to defeat them and then the messaging facility will be back.
Hi Charlie
What you’re doing is awesome! I’m sure Her Majesty approves. I’ll be watching your progress with wonder and admiration – keep the faith.
Sue
PS reading The Forgotten Highlander put all my everyday worries into perspective.
Hi habibi,
I miss you, training at the gym without you is not the same!
what about you? All the guys here are following your adventure, sure that when you’ll come the next time, you bring the new record with you. Here the life is as usual, the temperature in this period is between 45 and 48 and we got some beatiful sandy storm.
Never give up my friend, we are all with you!!!
Statti bbuono!
Cheers.
Andrea
Hi Charlie you no I sent a messige about my wobely tooth, it fell out at Debra and Richods hous today!!! I am going to put it under my pilow tonight so the tooth fairy can give me one pound!! and then I think i will see her on her magic flying horse!!
love from Eliza Blossom, xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Hi Charlie,
Batten down the hatches mate, we are all thinking of you in the storm.
All the best Mate, Michael
Charlie, Caught up with Jeremy yesterday who told us you’ve popped out for a row! I sounds like you’re having a moment with the winds against you. If it’s any consolation to you, the various row boats heading down the Thames for the Jubilee celebrations got totally drenched yesterday. Bloody awful weather here for June. Keep those spirits up out there. After all, this is a row of a lifetime! I’m actually quite envious – it must be quite the most unique experience! We’re very much wishing you some easterly winds to help you on your way. It’s got to change at some stage. Keep up the great work for the various causes! Best wishes from Blighty… Matt, Ness, Scott and Sienna.
Hi Charlie, well I am looking forward to your next news and to see that the storm has passed and you are on your way again. I hope it hasn’t been too scary and that if it has you remembered to ask for help. It’s there, just ask. I know many people think I am a bit mad to believe the way I do, in non-physical beings and that’s ok. I know you are fine with it and Archangel Michael is the one to ask (or shout for). I have just finished my 84 hour week and am enjoying still being in PJs at midday today! I have a week off now. The Forgotten Highlander I finished in a day. You are right, ‘enjoyed’ is probably not the word to describe the feelings when one finishes reading it. I wanted to talk about it afterwards with someone who had read it too. A quote from the introduction…. ‘ Remember, while it always seems darkest before the dawn, perseverence pays off and the good times will return’.
I have taken some pictures of the scenery around Walton Towers, and will continue over the summer as it progresses and changes. I thought I would use these and maybe arrange them into pictures for the ‘lobby’ we share, so you can see what has been going on here whilst you are away. I have bought a Victorian table for your post. Much better than the floor I thought, but of course I will take it away if it not to your liking!
It’s a great idea to go to the Anchor when you return
You really are doing the best you possibly can with the wind, weather and currents as they are. Things can change in an instant and just focus on what you want to happen, and give no thought whatsoever to what you don’t want. You have so much support and love coming to you from your family and friends, so tune into that and know that All is Well, even when it seems like it’s not! I wish you calmer waters and the best possible weather to lift you and take you east, fast.
Hey Charlie,
We’re down on weather ourselves but on a 97m vessel and we’re still moving around alot! We had some great sightings of Killer Whale and Pilot Whale we feel lucky that we can experience that. We think of what you’re doing and are updating the crew on here. We can’t see your blogs as the fire wall on here prevents anyone downloading any files from the internet! We’ll check them out on our return in a few weeks!
You’ll probably be preparing yourself and the boat for the next big roller-coaster ride! If it was easy everyone would be doing it
What did the Atlantic Ocean say to the Pacific?
‘nothing it just waved and waved’! (I have more great jokes like that)!
Hang in there Charlie you’ll be rowing again and making progress Eastward!
Rick, Laura and William
Hi Charlie.
Looks as if its been very tough. The upside is that it can and must improve for you. Afterall every trough is followed by an equivalent peak. Just watching The Gloriana being rowed down the Thames and thinking of you on your little boat. Stick at it mate. It wouldn’t be the Everest of the seas if it was a doddle!
Charlie that was MORPHTASTIC!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You are funny! (Little bit worried that you are well and truly headed into the realms of insanity though!! LOL!!)
Anyway, where’s that Charlie Smile??? You are doing SO well, and although we are celebrating here, we are not forgetting you there….I can feel your frustration
…..keep pushing that chin up, even if you have to prop it up with one of your pencils! 
Thinking of you and sending big hugs XX
Charlie loving the jubilee morph suit! Did you need to get that from a dodgy ‘specialist’ site. The dolphins must be thinking the neighbourhood has gone right downhill! Keep your chin up and your head down sweetie! Happy rowing X
The secret is out Mr Martell, confirmed today you are actually rowing an amphibious Tardis across the Pacific and not that tiny 7m bath tub we previously thought! besides the full Uniform and the Spiderman Outfits, will we be seeing you in full English Football strip and later full Olympic attire?!
Brilliant message to Her Majesty the Queen, did you get a reply?
Keep rowing “Strong & Fast” mate…
AL …
Morning Charlie!
Come on, where’s this best of British spirit you have? Keep positive, treat yourself to a Green and Blacks, regroup your thoughts and energy and go for it, and in the meantime we will put out positive vibes for some nice westerly breezes you! Nothing too strong as we don’t need you surfing to the States!
It’s all hotting up on this side of the planet with celebrations for the Jubilee, even up here in Scotland despite the press saying otherwise. I even have bunting out along my railings!
School fete yesterday, I was in charge of Lucky Dip which was hell (small hands and all that!), today is domestic duties and watching the flotilla with The Queen going down the Thames on the telly, then friends are having a garden party on Tuesday which should be a hoot, and where I will be spreading the word about your achievements!
Keep up the good work, like someone said its a blip and you will be rocking again in no time!
Say ‘cheese’!
M x
Hi Charlie, your doing amazing, todays winds are just a blip I’m sure those dots will be in straight lines in no time. Your not alone out there(you and Blosssom), you have so many friends and followers on your site that are right behind you wishing you all the very best. Re York, did you ever visit the famous Betty’s Tearooms?x
Me and Lez were looking out to sea tonight to see if we could see you mate, no joy from the Med, keep paddling mate
Charlie,
You are an inspiration to us all mate. Keep up the work on this fantastic challenge that you are doing. We loved the message to Her Majesty and looking forward to seeing her return message!! Stay safe buddy and may you have favourable winds!! A & J
Hi Charlie, its Felix here. I have been watching your dot with mum and dad, and tell my mates all about you. Today we had our football presentation and I got a trophie for Best Trainer. Tonight we are going to a party. Good luck with your rowing, you have rowd very far! love from Felix
Hi Charlie
Your doing really well ! You are one lucky man to have the dolphins visit you take comfort in them they will protect you. I went to Belfast on Wednesday for a family wedding with no phone and found myself slightly twitching because I could’nt get my fix of dot watching never mind I’m back on it again. I have been trying to do some rowing(just the pretend stuff in the gym)and my trainer held up his ipad with a video of you rowing so i was sort of rowing with you ha ha it was really funny.
Take care
Heather
Lovely message to the Queen, Charlie. I’m sure it is fully appreciated.
))
With Blue all around, you just require a bit of Red and White – Red Rosy Cheeks and White Fluffy Clouds rather than White Horses…!
Britain is going to be Great this weekend. You’ll be thought of at Pimms o’clock
Power on the Finishes and lengthen out 3-2-1- Go!
Elaine x.
STROKE……….STROKE……….STROKE………..STROKE………….STROKE………..crack on mush doing a great job so many people behind you over here!!!! Really proud mush making good ground as we watch today we are part of the blue dot brigade!!!
Charlie,
I am a dot goggler! – even if it is making me dizzy at the mo! Thoughts are with you, even when I ate at the CheeseFactory last night – I wont go into details….
,ore laters! Sol & Christina
You can add France, French Guiana, Martinique, St Lucia & Trinidad to your list of countries! Enjoying following you – amazing. It is bringing back memories of sores in bad places!! Keep it up. Ben
Sounds like a tough few days Charlie –
“I may not be as stong as I think, but I know many tricks and I have resolution.”
― Ernest Hemingway, The Old Man and the Sea
Keep rowing old man – we’re all cheering for you (without pom poms) xx
Great quote! Thank you! Love to all xx
Hi Charlie,
Me and Lez were having a couple of Almaza Beers for you on Sunday, we were telling people what you were doing and they did not believe us. Both me and Lez were telling them what a top bloke your are buddy : )
Dig in mate, your doing grand.
Cheers Michael
Fantastic mate. Thank you. Hope you, T and L are all well. Cheers Buddy.
Charlie, sorry the winds aren’t blowing your way. Nevertheless, we all know you will power through. This is a special weekend in the US to think of you, what you are doing, and why you are doing it. So many have suffered or died so that we may be free. This Memorial Day, we’ll remember them, and send you extra cheers. Be safe. We’ll see you in San Francisco!
Thanks Rob. It’s just a hurdle. Winds will change in due course, then I can
battle on North East. We Will Remember Them. See you in SF my friend.
Just been singing and dancing my head off in the sunshine to “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”…..hope it made it onto your IPod!!!
X
“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” – one of my all time fave tunes. On iPod and
reminds me of Northern Ireland. The guys who were there will know what I
mean and will remember. I was listening to this track a few nights ago! xxxx
hello charlie, sat with nanna at the moment, she sends all her love and if you pop in and see her she will cook you a steak and an apple pie with custard!
poppa sends his best wishes, boiling hot day here, he thinks you’re astonishing! the rowing is going well up in the calm waters of the Severn. we’ve got all the gear now so will you give zac and I a bit of coaching when you come back? take care and we wish you calm waters 
Hi Alfie – great to hear from you with news of nanna and poppa – please send
them my love. I’m going to have to take up your nanna on that steak followed
by apple pie and custard! Sounds delicious and I know it will be! Thanks for
your kind words. Love to all.
…just read latest blog and in fact, i think a great thanks needs to go out to shore support for all their hard work…
M.
M. – couldn’t agree more M. All I
have to is row… Shore Support doing a cracking job! Thanks Shore Support!
C!! you are doing so much more than “just rowing”
you and your team are great!!! M. xoxo
Good to hear from you Charlie,
Have you currently got a whale or something chasing you, 2.2 Knots on “oar” power! Keep peddling mate, hopefully you’ll be in a good position on your Magic Carpet before the low pressure reaches you…
Keep Rowing “Strong & Fast” we’re all with you, at least in mind (from the non adventurous comfort of watching it all unfolding on a computer monitor that is!) if not in body : )
Al…
Was pushing out the miles Al, but now stuck in low pressure for a couple of
days. Time to recover before cracking on again.
Hi Charlie – just got back to Plymouth and sat in apartment looking out over Plymouth sound ….. making me feel little sea sick … must have lost my sea legs …. however its apparent that you haven’t !!!
Keep going mate, all with you 100% – Respect.
Out4now – Rob
Cheers Rob. Hope you’re well buddy.
Hi my name is Rick Gannon and I’m a dot goggler! You’re doing great Charlie keep pushing hard onwards and eastwards!
Rickster! Stuck making pretty patterns for next few days… then back to
progress!
it is great that you are doing so well, thinking of you x
Thanks Sharon. Appreciated. Send your number to me at
blossom@pacific2012.com x
done! x
…keep up the good work CM
M.
Thanks M
x
I went to see the ilimpic torch! I wavd my uneeun jack!! it is so sunny we swim in the river on our walk everye day!! we are having a barbcyoo today!! Have you opend any of my leters yet ? I miss you so much that i want you to come back now!!
I love you to the moon and back!! xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx lov Eliza Blossom xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
I opened your letter today Eliza – thank you!
Lots of Love from your
Godfather. Miss you xxxx
hi charlie
I saw you at clifton prep school
I love folowing you on the map good luk
lots of love oliver
Hi Oliver – great to hear from you. Good to know that you’re following. Hope
all well at school.
hi charlie,
checking your progress every night , listening to your video blogs as seem to get seasick if i watch them!!!!
carry on rowing you nutter
love from all of us at greenway
Thanks Crosser. Seasick? At Greenway?
hi charlie, looks like you’re making good progress!
saw the olympic torch go through worcester yesterday, on the way to London. it was really cool, a massive event! 
there was a coke bus that was handing out free coke, a lloyds TSB bus and a samsung phone bus that was playing really loud music. it was brilliant!
will speak soon, off to Twickenham tomorrow with school to watch the Aviva Premiership Final, leicester vs harlequins, can’t wait!
Progress was going well… now have an enforced break Alfie, for a couple of
days. Coke bus giving out free coke, shame the Lloyds bus wasn’t giving away
£ eh? How was Twickers, who won?
Hi charlie,
I am good mates with Ben and helped him build the boat for his crossing a few years back. I will track your progress and get some support for your charities. Best of luck – it is an amazing challenge you have taken on and this is the second time I have been jealous of a rowing Martell!!
Craig.
Great to hear from you. Thanks for your kind words & support. You did a
great job with Kaos! Cheers.
Hello Mr!!
!!) Hope you get out of that cabin soon…cabin fever and all that!!!!!! L XX
I saw this and thought of you: “When you come to the end of your rope, tie a knot and HANG ON!!!!!!” – Franklin D. Roosevelt
Yes, the mermaids are out there somewhere!! (probably giggling at you
Great to see progress again, hope you are finding the waiting not too frustrating.
Would be good to see the stats updated please Mr Shore Support!
Shore Support Hamster has a number of different wheels in which to run. Stats wheel has had a stuck bearing but will spin again shortly…
Hope the bearing is free again now. Well done Hamster, if you’re short of
help, call on Clarkson…
Progress temporarily halted while low pressure passes through… will be on
para for next couple of days. Shore Support doing a grand job.
Keep up the good work mate, hope the North Pacific welcome is keeping you interested… All the bad days will be forgotten once you step off the other side… I think it’s a bit like ‘Male Pregnancy…’ Safe rowing Charlie,
cheers,
Mick
Hi Mick, great to hear from you buddy. Been some interesting times so far
and no doubt more to come. On para for a few days now, then cracking on
again. Hope you’re well. Cheers, Charlie
Hi Charlie, I hope you are now out of your cabin and that everything looks brighter because you are. You are doing something wonderful, and the money you are raising is fantastic. I am telling as many people as I can about your adventure and am emphasising the money you want to raise especially to those who have plenty! I am so happy you have your audio book and the inspiration from those 2 words. How timely your meeting was. I have ordered the book to read myself as I was moved by your connection to this man and his story. I am around this weekend so I will look out for the special visitors upstairs. At the moment the tree surgeon is here so it’s very noisy outside. Fiona (our Chairperson) is desperate for more light in her little garden at the back so it looks like some serious trimming is going to happen! Hopefully the rooks, woodpeckers, wrens, robins, deer, foxes, and rabbits will return on their departure.
I wish you good weather, currents, wind etc and if you are not rowing for a bit, you could play ‘imagine if’ which is good to do to raise ones mood, and exercise the imagination. Einstein said, ‘ Imagination is the preview of all lifes coming attractions’ and I go along with that too. It always makes me feel better because I can have anything, and do anything I want for a while, and then when you get really good at it, it becomes reality. That is why you are now sitting in your wonderful boat doing what you are doing. Stay in the moment, I know you are in safe hands.
Hi Julia, back in the cabin for a few days, while the low pressure passes,
then it’s back to the oars again and push east. Thank you so much for
passing the word about this challenge, I really appreciate it. Half of it is
being out here, the other half is to hit/exceed the donations target…
still a long ways to go on both counts, but bit by bit, we’ll make it. The
Forgotten Highlander is one amazing read. I hope you enjoy (hardly seems the
right word) it. Special visitors only stayed a few hours, but may stay
longer next time. I don’t think I’ve met Fiona yet – in fact, I was thinking
a few days ago about us all maybe going to the Anchor for a drink later in
the year… just a thought. Imagine if… will be played later and no doubt
tomorrow as well! Take care, Charlie
Excellent, progress mate. Good drills buddy : 0
Cheers Buddy. Enforced downtime now, then pushing on again in a few days
time. Hope all well – walls painted?!
Isn’t the rough sea making you miss landlocked Kathmandu and lemon pie?
Big hugs from Beirut!
Hi M! Great to hear from you. Hmm… I do miss Ktm, but not the landlocked
bit… just the lemon tart and the odd Sunday visit for French onion soup!
Hope all well in the Leb!
Charlie, don’t know how you manage bobbing about on the ocean without throwing up!! I felt ill just lying on the gently swaying garden swing seat!!!!!. You are doing fantastic and enjoy watching your progress.
cheers.
Was shattered yesterday… now a chance to recover and prepare for the next
phase. So, a couple more days bobbing about, before I push on again.
Hi Charlie,
Thanks for your mention regards Taffs 60th, a good time was had by all. I see you have been having a difficult few days with the weather and things outside your control. It is a good relationship with my trading, you will never control the markets as an individual, however you must be ready when the markets make their move. Watching the main indicator which is price and using a number of preset Confluence of Events, we can stack the odds in our favour. When the time is right you get rewarded. At present you are watching price (weather) and checking your confluence of events, (Food, sleep, equipment, boat etc) and soon they will be lined up. When they are, you will be ready and waiting to take advantage and move on from your current RV/Patrol base. Keep the mind active and open and speak to you soon. Brummie
hi charlie hope you are having fun!!!!!
Hi Hugo, yes, generally I am having fun. A bit tired, sore, stiff and aching
right now. However, I have to wait a few days now, until the weather turns
in my favour before I can continue east again. Hope all well at school.
Hi Brummie, thanks for the analogy/relationship to trading – totally agree!
All should be aligned again in a few days, then time to take the advanatge,
exit this RV and make for the next one. Cheers, Charlie
Hi Charlie
Hello from sunny Jersey the little rock! Been following you , I’m not the best of sailors and watching your video makes me want to grab my sea-bands!.If you were from my neck of the woods we would say you had ‘true yorkshire grit’ which will get you through anything.
The very best of luck Charlie for a safe,amazing journey, hats off to you.x
Hi Wendy – where in Yorkshire are you from? I did my MA at York, great
place! So, how’s Jersey? Sunny day here, but wind against me until later in
the week. So am drifting until then. Recovering, preparing for the next
burst! Thanks for your message! x
Hi Charlie, I come from a small village called Brandesburton about 6 miles from Beverley. My grandparents lived in York ,spent lots of childhood days there, as you say its a lovely city. May go back to live there as the people are so warm and friendly ha ha!
Good luck in the days ahead.
Today St Aubins bay where you did the regatta has been thick fog, intervals of sun but not the best for Jersey.You must come back and visit some day.
Have been following your progress, its addictive! I feel your pain when you say every body part hurts like crazy!
I hope the weather comes good for you and you skim accross those waves
wye aye man yer rowin’ loooooks a wee bit wobbly like (Newcastle accent)….
English accent: Hi Charlie – the boys and I are dot goggling and it shows quite a pretty bow shape at the moment……hope the weather improves for you. Keep getting messages from England from people who see you or your Dad on TV….blow the olympics eh?!! Keep going – you are inspiring SO many people!! Love the video – it made us really chuffed to see you have music playing while you row etc. The boys think you should play a bit of LMFAO – but I’m not sure if you party rock in the boat you might fall out!!! xx
wye aye Geordie lass! Great to hear from you. More pretty shapes to be
showing on your screen soon, as I drift for the next few days… A chance to
.. recover, while the wind is against me. I heard that Dad was on tv
(again!). I’ve just put on LMFAO, whilst here in the cabin, writing to you -
party rock! Hope you, Chris and the boys are well. Take care xx
Dear Charlie
Fantastic effort, and you have made great progress. Your website is mandatory reading each day to keep up with your news. Wishing all the luck for some good currents and a helping wind. Regards Bertie
PS Our rowing boat preparation for the Thames is making slow progress. Have oars and rowlocks now, but yet to get in her and row! Don’t even know whether she floats yet!
Hi Bertie – great to hear from you and thanks for your kind words. Obviously
I hope that your boat floats… and that she is easy to tie up (outside
riverside establishments!) – looking forward to hearing more of your
progress in due course!
Hi Charlie. Looks to have been a tough few days. I’m even getting dizzy watching you! It can only get better. Stick in there, we’re all pulling those oars with you buddy.
A tough few days, but am now on para-anchor for a few days, whilst wind is
in wrong direction. So, a chance to recover and prepare for the next miles.
Great to hear from you (and many others!), with your words of support and
encouragement, much appreciated. Cheers, Charlie
…can’t you use that para-anchor thingy to catch the wind and yank you out of that darn loopy spot
all’s good, plenty of time still ahead to head in the right direction!! Didn’t think dot-watching would have been so exciting…!!!
M.
Para-anchor thingy?! It’s doing a grand job in the water, acting like a
C x
giant brake, preventing me going to far in the wrong direction and…
providing you with pretty patterns on your screen lol
and pretty patterns they are lol
Hi Charlie, Hope the wind changes soon, so you can make real progress, im sure it will, im following your pos every day,
also Sarah s pos, as no dought you are, keep safe,
Thanks very much Ray. A few days on the para-anchor, a chance to recover and
prepare for the next phase… and make some more progress east. Cheers,
Charlie
Charley boy! we are all watching your progress day by day. All behind you, it’s catching on over here a few mates are getting the yellow brick road bug and keep watching too. I’ve done some swatting myself on the weather and just looks likes it’s pissing you about at the moment. It will pass, crack on Martell and shoot the bloody thing!!
Cuz! Mush, how’s things? You all settled in now? Great to hear from you. I
have a few days on the para-anchor now, a chance to recover, then will be
off on the next phase eastwards soon… Hope all well Mush. Love to all.
For a few days there, the rumour was you had run short of Sushi and were off back to stock up supplies ; )
Well back on track again Charlie, Keep rowing Strong & Fast your support is growing by the hour…
AL…
Cheers AL. Fresh out of sushi now… maybe time to catch some critters! Will
push on again in a couple of days time.
Internally you experience rowing as a graphic microcosm of life, solitude, learning, work, rest, nourishment, sharing, and ultimately challenge !
Allen Rosenberg………
Keep yer chin up lad, REmember we are all rooting for ya ! Ubique !
Great quote Chris! A few days now to recover mate. Then back to oars and
push on eastwards. Good to hear from you mate
Splendid work Martell, just remember to do the odd bit of rowing, us dot watchers can’t have you spending all your time engrossed in Sherlock Holmes!!
Jojo – back on para-anchor. Time for more Sherlock Holmes. Did you know he
had a brother? How’s Team RoJoJo? Any news on LiLos?
Row, Row, Row yer boat, blah de blah de blah, hows it hangin m8, you seem to have gone round in circles some what since my last visit to your dot, so im gona have to look more often just to guide you in the right direction, start pushing to the right a wee bit that should sort ya out, lol.
Start pushing a wee bit to the right…? Ah OK! Will get on it in a few days
time… resting now! lol
i hope your very interesting in your trip and save , many demining issuing waiting you and I hope finish your trip with the good weather……. god with you ensha allah
Best regards
Mabrok
Shukran Mabrok.
Salam alay kum Mabrok and shukran. It is interesting here. I hope all is
good with you at the LSC. Keep well my friend. Best regards, Charlie
Hey Sherlock!! I think Sir Conan Doyle is rubbing off on you, ………at last your intuition and powers of logic are sending you in the right direction!!
XX
Cheeky! lol xx
I am a friend of Jane Bosch, and you are truly an inspiration. God Bless you in your travels! Lisa
Thank you so much Lisa, for your kind words.
Hope you are finding time to enjoy all the lovely messages to you. I am sure they are a great boost. Am concerned once you hit dry land in US you won’t be able to get into any of the bars due to your head having got so big. I am sure you will have cheerleaders gallour lining the banks to great you so keep rowing. The hard days remember make for the better stories to tell later. Definite man points. Looking like you are fighting hard as you are going forwards. Char and I are looking at dates to fly out so keep going. Planning Vix’s baby shower as she is ready to drop and just had Cav Mem – parading around Hyde Park in bowler hats other wise no change here. A tiny bit of dancing on tables at Bart’s with Lorraine (believe you dated one of her mates) as girly night out in London. She remembered attending your Atlantic row leaving do. If you can get to US before School term starts she might fly out also.
ROW ROW ROW
Have to agree with the others dot watching has never been so exciting. The circles give you a feeling of being on a rollercoaster but they always pop out the other side
Love reading messages, ramblings waffle etc – it’s all great. Oh no… no
cheerleaders please! Dancing on tables at Bart’s? Lorraine? Friend?
Confused!
Hi Charlie
Wigs
I thought of you this morning on my run, Anastasia blaring out and funnily enough I clocked my best time for ages. You inspire so many people and you have so many people dot watching, you have to have the bad days to appreciate the good! Hope the weather is kind to you soon. Keep going you’re not alone!!
Anastasia! You see, she has the touch! x>
Hi Charlie,
I thought the pretty patterns were for tactical reasons, like doing a ‘P’ route on patrol to make sure your not being followed : )
Buddy I can’t imagine how hard it is, but remember you are doing what you have planned for years and living a life most don’t even dream about.
You are missing nothing here in the rate race mate, so enjoy every minute, soon enough it will be all over and just another memory in your tapestry of life.
We are all with you every day Charlie and all very, very proud of you. So crack on. It could be worse you could be helping me paint the house…
All the best Michael
Great words mate, thank you.
Stinking bishop cheese, Glos. old spots , your father on tv last night with adam henson and country file.Had never heard of perry pear tree which gave its name.
We think of you at a tough moment especially as nancy’s poetry group are reading the dymock wwi poets.
So greetings from all at CCJS -including the retired !
Phil Davies
Thanks so much for your words. Thinking back to 1st XV, top pitch, Mr Hunt.
Good times!
Hey buddy..a couple of bad days in the grand scheme of things isn’t too bad…think big…big picture Charlie…the outcome will outweigh all the struggles! Life is full of hiccups and road bumps no? This is no different…just keep rowing rowing rowing
Mary
Thanks for your words of encouragement M
x
Hey Charlie!
You are doing really well!
I was trying to explain to my 6 year old Ian what you were doing and where you were but I think the whole concept has been lost on him. Still to show him your entertaining excitement of seeing another boat! You should get out more!!
On a different note there is no getting away from your name. Was watching Countryfile this evening as your Dad was on fogging an Old Spot and her piglets (very cute) to the show’s rare breed farmer, who also got introduced to the Bishop when he was there. He said he didn’t do stinky cheese but approved.
Keep at it – I will have Ian convinced by the time you get to the States, I hope.
M x
Ah yes, Dad has been on tv, again! Hope you and family are well x
Hi Charlie – just as a quick update as to what’s happening off the water. I’ve just seen your Dad on Countryfile BBC1, saw the new still that you showed me pictures of. All looked fantastic and of course there was also the obligatory tasting of Stinking Bishop
. Hope the currents and winds are starting to work a little more in your favour, keep strong and keep going, you’re doing a fantastic job, hopefully the law of averages will come into play and you’ll get pushed along as much as you’ve had to fight over the last few days! Dot watching on the iPhone is taking up a fair bit of my time these days and I’m sharing all the updates as they come in. Row safe mate!!
Dad on Countryfile – yep… You’re a star Del. Great words, thank you. Hope
your leg is on the mend.
Hi Charlie, Just been watching your dad on countryfile! he was showing his gloucester old spots and stinky cheese. thought i would just let you know
keep going!
Cheers Alfie
No action? Always next time! Tigers kit sounds v.cool! Love
to Mum, Dad and bro.
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I LOVE YOU SO MUCH
Right back at you! Hope you’re saving some special cuddles for your
xxxx
Godfather
Hey Charlie you’re doing great it’s good to give yourself a pep talk when needed! Laura and I are still offshore so we can’t see your blogs as the server doesn’t allow us to download or except any video feeds! so we can only see pics which are embedded on your newsletter. But we can see you’re doing great as we follow your dot religiously. The crew come over and ask how you’re getting along and can’t believe what you’re doing! Keep pushing hard you’re not there to just finish but to break the record so keep digging deep and know that you have a lot of followers mentally pushing you east! Sqn!
Thanks Rick! Much appreciated. Regards to L.
Keep up the good work Martell! You are doing so well. I watched a bit of the film Castaway the other day, it had me thinking of you and what a huge challenge this is mentally. Keep strong for all of us dot watchers!!
in reference to another post, The new Tigers kit is very cool indeed. Tiiiiiiigers! And on the rugby theme, Chichester lost the Sussex Cup yesterday to East Grinstead
Row Martell, row! xx
Thanks Gibbs! Hope you had a top w/e. xx
Hi Charlie,
Mark me down for a $1000 for your epic adventure and good cause. It seems the book we brought you for your Birthday in York really paid off buddy.
Cheers Michael
P.S. I would actually swap with you today, as I have to start the house painting in Sweden…
Hahaha… the book! Certainly beats the gift given to Nick!
Hi Charlie, being the dedicated follower of Charlie cam I have just checked out your latest upload on todays events before heading to bed, whilst you’ll be rowing away merrily!
. Thank you 
xx
Just a small request being the selfish person that I am, can you please put a warning on your site regarding the possibility of sea sickness whilst on land for lightweight, slightly tipsy people like me with a balance problem. I know you may think its relatively calm conditions, but trying to spot a ship 2 miles away whilst you are rocking from side to side ( looking quite undisturbed I must add) after drinking a bottle of cava and a bottle of red & a chinese with my cousin wasn’t really a good idea!
Ps. You’re doing really well Mr M! Hope everything going as well as its looking from here, albeit slight hiccup in the weather ( and GPS) at times. Absolutely loving the site and all the new additions…and addicted to checking in throughout the day ( and night). Take care. M xx
No, no, no… I want you to write to me to tell me that you were in fact sea
sick, whilst in bed! (especially after cava and chinese!) lol xx
Hi Charlie, hope you are well
zac and i went to a party last night, spent AGES there and didn’t get any action with the girls! disappointment! 
going to watch the Heineken Cup Final next week with school at twickenham, Leicester Tigers Vs Harlequins, I’m supporting Leicester 
Leicester have a new kit, it looks really cool, same colours but instead of the normal bands round the middle, there are tiger stripes in red, white and green.
We’re watching your progress all the way, mum sends her love, she thinks you’re amazing! your doing great, i’ll send a message soon
Charlie, Love the way you say in the video clip that it’s a relatively calm day for rowing!!!!! I was just about sea sick watching you ! Mind you, the weather doesn’t seem much worse than here. Inspired by your ‘Joie de vivre’ and will check you later.
Great to see your progress and always look forward to all your updates on Twitter and through your blogs. You are doing incredibly. Continuing to spread the word back here of your crazy but amazing adventure. Here’s a question – What do you think about while you are out there for all those hours?! Keep safe. Georgie x
As always, you’re a star! Answer… you name it, I may have thought of it…
but primarily what happens next… home, work etc… x
Admired your French comment ,”c’est la vie ” but what a vie you have chosen.
Good luck and eat well
As my mentorat school would have said in less expressive days “quite promising”
Thank you. I still have my old school reports… “could do better” appears
more times than perhaps it should.
From Nova Scotia, Canada, love what you are doing, I want to cross the Atlantic some day doing what you are doing, do you have any tips?
Hi Len Eddy, Nova Scotia, Canada! For starters take a look at
oceanrowing.com
Awesome Charlie! Hello right back at ya! Following your progress as promised! Stay strong! xo
keep going your doing really well. You are amazing to be doing this.
Thank you very much for your kind words.
Hi again Charlie, time for another empowering message to help you on your way
. It sounds like you’ve had a couple of tough days with the ‘gluey’ currents and wind, but you’ve shown that you can still make good progress in the tough conditions and fantastic progress when things are all working with you…so it’s all going the right way and you’re doing a fantastic job, so carry on mate you’re doing brilliantly! Also loving all the tweets and video blogs, good to know that you’re still there – really hope they can sort out the auto tracking from your yellow brick. Keep going mate, we’re all cheering you on from here – GO ON CHARLIE!!
Hi Charlie,
Thank you so much for your brilliant blog to Rumney High. What a surprise!!! We will use it in our assemblies to show more of our pupils what you are doing.
Thanks again
Tessa
You’re most welcome.
Keep it up Charlie all the best from us all at the BD Branch
Cheers Fos. 33 Engr Regt (EOD) flag flying with pride and in honour.
Hii Charlie, glad you have the dolphins to keep you company buddy. Excellent job mate, keep smiling
Row row row yer boat mate, supperb effort and great videos, keep up the commando spirit
All the best Nobby
Cheers Nobby. Dagger on the bow… when weather is calmer, will get pic.
Top Flora and Fauna Vids Charlie, seeing those dolphins reminded me of the porpoises playing at the bow of the RFA Gold Rover on the way from the Falklands to South Georgia, it is fun for them and a great sign they are there with you, hopefully you will see them many more times as well as more of Nemo, Dory and friends : )
What song have you been listening to the most?
Fantastic progress mate!
Keep rowing fast & strong…
AL…
Thanks Al. Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger”! – Hope all well mate.
Charlie!
I’ve sailed across the Pacific, so now I know why they made aeroplanes! You can do anything you set your mind to but it is a bloody long way. You need to be a little bit mental, a little bit mad – but at the end of the day those attributes will actually keep you sane.
Say hello to Neptune, I baked him muffins so I hope he remembers me:) Have fun it will stay with you forever.
Big respect. Give us a Power 20 on the catches…
Elaine x.
Elaine, these aeroplanes… do they cross the Pacific? x
Hey Charlie,
Dolphins come and swim with our boat in Greece and even though it happens nearly every summer it’s just as exciting each time as though it was the first, they’re looking after you, along with Johnathon Livingston Seagull !
It’s Blossom the black labs birthday today! I heard Rolf Harris on the radio this arvo & I think you’re creating another Rolf Harris moment with the dots! ‘can you see what it is yet?!’
Keep on with the rowing!
Wigs
Happy Birthday Blossom! So, what pic have I “drawn” ?
x
Well I reckon it could be the string and end bow of a balloon, just don’t carry on drawing the rest of the balloon otherwise you’ll never get there!
Charlie sweetie we have returned from sunny Cyprus and we are now stalking you (don’t worry we’re not on a boat behind you) I watched todays video clip and whilst concerned that you werent physically rowing during it my main concern as a ‘non rowing hormonal 40yr old mother of 2′ is that you had no hat on and if you burn ‘bonce’ at this stage then quite frankly your not in a position to nip to ‘superdrug’ to grab some after sun! You may not care now that sun damage is very ageing to your skin but keep in mind that no woman wants a man with skin like beef jerky! take care sweetie and happy rowing. Oh and try to row in the right direction. BIG hugs X Yvonne X
Yvonnneeeeee….I disagree..I think Charlie is hot, beef jerky or not
*blush*!
Your sis did grass you up to where you’ve been! Hope you had a fab time. I
have aftersun, (I have packets of beef jerky too!), so don’t fret “Mum”.
Will put more effort into rowing eastwards tomorrow… Love to all x
Enjoyed your videos today Charlie and especially seeing the photos and descriptions from inside the boat! Keep it up mate! Nick
Thanks Nick. Hope all well with you mate.
Hello shippers
Tremendous effort mate. I wish you well on your intrepid voyage. If you pass Hawaii will you please keep an eye out for some black flip flops and a pair of small green shorts with a red dagger on them! I lost them in Waikiki in 88! Dig deep pal. All the very best.
Regards.
Tony.
Hey shippers, thanks! Blossom has got a whiff of your black flip flops…
we’re heading North now! Hope you’re well.
Gigging tomorrow night in Tyre mate – i feel an ‘Oarsman’s Blues’ song coming on with the new guitar… straight off the top of my head for you pal.. top drills and awesome effort so far Charlie. All the best
Lez
Hi Lez, great to see you a few weeks ago. How did the gig go? All the best
mate.
Hi Charlie, I asked Archangel Michael to watch over you. And so he is and I am sure that your seagull came to remind you about that. You are doing great and I am loving seeing the videos and following the dots. All is fine here, the trees (remember those?) are changing daily, it is SO green here now, and the views are as wonderful as ever. Oh yes, the stairs were done today; green Treadmaster, all looking very smart and safe. I think you will approve. Stay happy, safe, and in the moment
Great to hear from you Julia. Walton sounds great – No 7 will be occupied
this w/e, am sure they’ll say “hi”. Stairs, excellent! Take care.
Hi Charlie- I teach your sis Liz dressage with her horse Harvey and when saw her this evening, she was telling me about your amazing adventure. Absolutely awesome!!
Will be following you across the paciffic now till San Fran- good luck!!
Andy
Ah so you’re the guru. Great job. Thanks for your support.
OK, now listen Charlie, you just have to ignore the mermaids, and don’t listen to the “sirens” tempting song either, its a trick!!!!! Turn around quickly!!!!! xx
I’m ignoring the Sirens, but not the mermaids… they’re here somewhere am
sure of it! xx
Hey there Charlie just wanted to say Hi and good luck today. Stay save and I can’t wait to see more videos.
Brave? Or stupid, unhinged, crackers, mad… Thanks so much
Hi Charlie,
Great effort in true Commando Style, keep up the good work and row, row, row the boat……. I am at a big Commando 59 gathering in Neath tomorrow night to celebrate Taff Evans 60th Birthday, Davey Quinn is doing the talk. You will be in our thoughts and we will drink for you……………… If you get a chance, mention Happy Birthdy to Taff Evans in your next video blog.
Brummie Maher
Charlie, I hate to tell you this, your’e going the wrong way sweety !!
Xx
Charlie, you’re doing an amazing job! My daughters and I are loving all the videos. Thanks for sharing them. Also love seeing “Plus est en vous” behind you as you speak! Have fun, and be safe. Were cheering for you!
Thanks Rob. Kind words. Plus Est En Vous!
Hey Charlie,
You got them – cant wait for the outside blog…….must have been amazing. Moments like that are to be treasured.
Mingi Salaams,
Suzy
Good stuff Charlie mate, bet those hard earned “Bat Wings” are just dropping off now
Keep at it mate !
Cheers – Rob
Certainly are Rob. Cheers!