Nebraska Woman Becomes First American to Row Solo Across Atlantic

Taryn Smith completes grueling 3,000-mile journey, finishing 5th overall in women's division.

Feb. 5, 2026 at 7:15am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Taryn Smith, a woman from Omaha, Nebraska, has become the first American to row solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Despite having no prior rowing experience, Smith set out on the 46-day, 3,000-mile journey in December of last year and completed the treacherous crossing, finishing 5th overall in the women's division and 1st in the women's solo category of the World's Toughest Row race.

Why it matters

Smith's accomplishment is a remarkable feat of human endurance and determination, as she took on one of the most challenging physical and mental tests in the world with no prior experience. Her success highlights the power of the human spirit to overcome obstacles and achieve the extraordinary, even in the face of daunting odds.

The details

Taryn Smith, a 32-year-old from Omaha, Nebraska, set out on December 14th of last year to row solo across the Atlantic Ocean as part of the World's Toughest Row race. Despite having never been in a rowboat before, Smith completed the grueling 3,000-mile journey in 46 days, 3 hours, and 37 minutes, arriving at Nelson's Dockyard in Antigua last week. She finished 5th overall in the women's division and 1st in the women's solo category, an incredible accomplishment given her lack of prior experience.

  • On December 14, 2025, Taryn Smith set out to row across the Atlantic Ocean.
  • After 46 days, 3 hours, and 37 minutes of rowing, Smith arrived in Antigua on January 29, 2026.

The players

Taryn Smith

A 32-year-old woman from Omaha, Nebraska who became the first American to row solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Courage isn't about having experience — it's about being willing to try something hard anyway.”

— Taryn Smith

The takeaway

Taryn Smith's remarkable accomplishment demonstrates the power of the human spirit to overcome challenges and achieve the extraordinary, even in the face of daunting odds. Her story is an inspiration to anyone who dreams of pushing the boundaries of what's possible.