Yahoo News 
Mum-of-two makes history with speedy solo Atlantic rowing crossing
A mother-of-two has rowed her way into the record books, becoming the fastest woman to cross the Atlantic in the history of a gruelling race.
Elaine Hopley completed the 2,000 mile Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge – dubbed the world’s toughest row – in 59 days, 19 hours and 14 minutes, making her the fastest woman to cross the Atlantic solo in the 30-year history of the race.
Elaine, 45, from Dunblane in Scotland, set off from La Gomera in the Canary Islands on December 14 and arrived in Antigua after spending nearly two months at sea.
During the race, she not only battled elements including rowing through “blood rain” which included sand from the Sahara, but also missed her sons Guy and Harvey turning seven and nine respectively while she was away.
She said: “It was totally epic. It was unlike anything I could have ever imagined.”
MORE: It’s a Brr-Brr-Bromance – arthritic penguin called Dippy becomes best mates with his keeper, Dave
MORE: Cambridge University student tried to burn £20 note in front of homeless man
“There were some terrifying thunderstorms where lightning bolts were incredibly close to the boat, but I pulled on through.
“It was definitely hard being away from my family over Christmas and New Year and seeing them all here today is just fantastic.”
An experienced endurance athlete, Elaine was raising money for Alzheimer Scotland and rowed across in a boat named after her mother, Jan.
Before she set off, she said her mother would play an important part in inspiring her crossing, saying: “I love adrenaline sports and it has always been a goal and dream to cross an ocean, that for years has remained unfulfilled, as I have needed to support my mother who was diagnosed with dementia.
“I feel the need to raise funds for this little understood disease and this crossing is dedicated to her.”
The outdoor instructor had previously won the inaugural Women’s Scottish mountain bike cross country series and repeatedly defended her title during the 1990s.
She also completed solo rides between Land’s End and John O’Groats, and throughout Australia, New Zealand and Chile.
