Kingsman takes on the Atlantic

Army news, 2nd Dec

December 12 will be a significant day with a difference for a young Army rower as he braces himself for a record attempt. 

Kingsman Kian Helm (pictured far left) from the Duke of Lancaster’s Regiment, who is only just old enough to vote, will take his place on the start line of the Talisker Whisky Challenge at La Gomera.

On that day, the 18-year-old will set off from the Canary Islands as part of the Force Atlantic crew hoping to row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean. His aim is not only to complete the journey to the West Indian island of Antigua but also to beat the record of 43 days for the fastest teenager to achieve the feat. 

“I didn’t really know what I was getting into, but it has turned out to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity” Kingsman, Helm

The team he belongs to is the Army’s official entry in the punishing event – billed as the world’s toughest ocean rowing race – and its members all stem from AFC Harrogate.

Words and images copyright MOD Army