Antigua and Barbuda – January 19, 2024. In a spectacular display of hometown pride, resilience, and unity, three brothers from Niceville, alongside their nephew, have etched their names in the annals of ocean rowing. The historic Nelsons Dockyard in English Harbour, Antigua, resonated with cheers as Tim, Trent, and Thomas Hamilton, who grew up in Niceville, secured the third-place finish in the World’s Toughest Row – Atlantic 2023.
“We made a commitment that we would love each other, put each other first, always believe the other one was giving everything they had, and always forgive,” said brother Trent Hamilton, “It did not matter when we got here and how fast.” They say their unwavering bond propelled them forward through the grueling race, symbolizing the resilience ingrained in their hometowns.
The Brothers’ nephew, Ben Hamilton-Clark, became the first Jamaican to row the Atlantic Ocean, adding a unique chapter to their journey. “It’s been pretty cool. I’ve never known my uncles like that before. I got to know them pretty well, and I love them all the more,” Hamilton-Clark said. Despite not intending to compete, their formidable pace secured them the well-deserved third place in this year’s World’s Toughest Row – Atlantic 2023.
The transformation of Team Foar Brothers took an unexpected turn when on-land brother Troy had to withdraw due to injury. Stepping up to join his uncles in the challenging endeavor, Ben became an integral part of the triumphant crew.
Brother Troy spent over a decade running various NGOs in Afghanistan. He inspired the team’s choice of charity: SEND RELIEF – Afghanistan Refugee. Remarkably, they raised an impressive $36,800 for the cause, shining a light on the community spirit of Niceville.
The Foar Brothers’ arrival not only marked a significant personal achievement but also became a story of hometown pride, resilience, and unity.
Celebrating the local heroes from Fort Lauderdale and Niceville, their journey has not only inspired their communities but also contributed to a noble cause.
Their chosen charity, SEND RELIEF – Afghanistan Refugee, will benefit from the funds raised during their remarkable journey.
The World’s Toughest Row – Atlantic is an annual ocean rowing race covering approximately 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean. Beginning in La Gomera, the Canary Islands, and concluding in Antigua, Caribbean, the race tests the limits of human endurance and determination. Organized by Atlantic Campaigns SL, the series of ‘World’s Toughest Row’ aims to be one of the most challenging extreme challenges in the world, pushing participants to their physical and mental limits.
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