The founder of Bush Ways Safaris, Marc “Germ” Germiquet, has announced his boldest challenge yet: rowing 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean as part of the World’s Toughest Row. Set to begin on December 12, Germiquet will undertake the renowned Atlantic Challenge solo to raise funds for a cause close to his heart and to push his limits as an adventurer.
Germiquet spoke about the daunting task ahead, sharing, “This will be the toughest competition I’ve ever been part of, testing me beyond anything I’ve experienced. But I’m ready to give it my all. I hope to represent Botswana as the first Motswana to take on this challenge, and I’m driven by a mission to raise funds to build a school for children in Kumaga through our Bush Ways Foundation.”
The World’s Toughest Row is known for its extreme demands on endurance, as rowers face weeks or even months on the open ocean. Participants must overcome waves, wind, and harsh weather in an event recognized worldwide for its grueling nature. Competitors are often required to row in shifts—two hours on, two hours off—while contending with isolation, sleep deprivation, and self-sufficiency. Everything from food supplies to navigation tools must be managed on board, with solar panels providing power.
Germiquet’s Atlantic journey, a solo 3,000-mile expedition from La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Antigua in the Caribbean, will include six other solo athletes from various parts of the world. As the only African in the solo category, he will row under the banner of “Ocean Ways,” representing not only his nation but also his dedication to philanthropy.
“I’ve been preparing for this journey mentally for 15 years and have now been training physically with an excellent team of trainers and advisors,” said Germiquet. “I’ve worked out every detail and met all the race’s qualifying criteria. This journey is a culmination of my dedication and preparation.”
Bush Ways Safaris, founded by Germiquet nearly 30 years ago, has long been committed to community initiatives in Botswana, including the construction of two schools under the Bush Ways Foundation. For this Atlantic Row, Germiquet has launched the “300 Club” on his website, inviting supporters to donate for every ten miles he completes. He hopes to inspire Batswana to set personal goals, encouraging them to achieve what they once thought was impossible.
“With this challenge, I want to raise funds for the school and inspire others to face their own challenges. I’m simply a man climbing a mountain; even if I don’t win, finishing will be an accomplishment in itself, and the people I uplift along the way will be the true reward.”
The World’s Toughest Row stands as a test of human spirit and endurance, with participants often using their journeys to raise awareness and funds for meaningful causes.
