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Kelsey Pfendler Becomes First American Woman to Row Hawaii

7/4/2026

Summary

Kelsey Pfendler Solo-Row

Kelsey Pfendler completed a solo 2,400-mile row from Monterey to Oahu in about 43 days, becoming the first American woman to finish the California-to-Hawaii crossing.
The May 2026 expedition lasted over 40 days, with Pfendler alone in a 24-foot boat facing extreme isolation and short sleep cycles.
Officials will confirm the record after arrival, with rowing groups expected to recognize the achievement and likely inspire future attempts on the route.

Summary

Pfendler Ocean-Row

Monterey city added Pfendler’s ocean row to its July 4 festivities, showing a live map of her route.
Pfendler, a 32-year-old former white-water rafting guide from New York, said guiding gave her navigation and endurance for the row.
The Whale Foundation and Hatch River Expeditions matched donations to raise $30,000 for 334 counseling sessions for guides, while Pfendler aimed to beat Rob Eustace’s 2014 solo California-to-Hawaii record of 52 days, 13 hours, 17 minutes.

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Kelsey Pfendler Solo-Row

Kelsey Pfendler completed a solo 2,400-mile row from Monterey to Oahu in about 43 days, becoming the first American woman to finish the California-to-Hawaii crossing.
The May 2026 expedition lasted over 40 days, with Pfendler alone in a 24-foot boat facing extreme isolation and short sleep cycles.
Officials will confirm the record after arrival, with rowing groups expected to recognize the achievement and likely inspire future attempts on the route.

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