PEGGY BOUCHET

« Always dare, sometimes give in, never give up » ^©

1st woman who dared to row across the Atlantic

2000: Only Victory is Beautiful

Photo credits: Jean-Marc Lecerf

Last hours

January 5, 2000, I haven’t slept for 36 hours, a few miles from cutting my line, my feelings are confused: apprehension, nostalgia, stress. I forbid myself to let myself feel any sense of happiness for fear of experiencing the same misfortune, the same injustice as last year off Guadeloupe. I’m physically and mentally exhausted. I knew that this second crossing would be very trying. And it has been… far beyond anything I could have imagined. I really went to the end of myself.

An hour from this line, which for weeks and months has become my obsession, I have to deal with rough seas and strong currents. The media contact me for my impressions. I show a certain reserve to ward off fate and stay focused.

Photo credits: Jean-Marc Lecerf

I did it!

As I cross the finish line in Martinique, time stands still for me: on one side the skyline, on the other the coast of the West Indies, and in my mind, the map of the Atlantic, the immense relief and pride of being able to say “I’ve done it! My gaze rests on my quote, my motto written before my departure in indelible ink in my cabin: “Always dare, sometimes give in, never give up”. The sun is just rising, the first boats have come to meet me, I can see the first colors of the land, wet looks and smiles, the first “Bravo”.

Photo credits: Franck Faugère (DPPI)

Unforgettable happiness

I’d like this moment to unfold in slow motion and savor every second. I’m happy, proud of the effort I’ve made. The film of these four years of adventure, laughter and tears flashes through my mind. If only it were possible for me to capture these memories and preserve their intensity…

I think of all the people who supported and helped me. I thank them and associate them with this victory. I’m leaving this experience matured and enriched, and I’m thinking of all those who want to try their luck: let them know that their dream is within their reach.

As for me, what will remain with me is the immense happiness of having succeeded, of having gone to the end, and even beyond, of myself.

PEGGY BOUCHET

1ère femme à avoir osé traverser l’Atlantique à la rame