A Glasgow University graduate has set a new record after a solo rowing challenge across the Atlantic - powered by cans of Irn-Bru.
Miriam Payne made the 3000 mile voyage through shark-infested waters over Christmas after setting off from the Canary Islands on December 12.
Rowing alone for almost 18 hours per day over the last two months, the 23-year-old sailed into Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour, Antigua & Barbuda in the early hours of Friday morning.
Miriam, who completed the Atlantic Rowing Challenge in 59 days, 16 hours and 13 minutes, could not accept any repairs, food or extra water during her trip but made sure she took a pack of her favourite drink on board.
She even stopped halfway through her journey to celebrate with a can.
She trained for three years to get ready for the race and acquired her taste for the fizzy juice thanks to her Scottish-born mum and time at university in Glasgow.
She will now return to her home in Market Weighton in Yorkshire to a fridge full of her favourite juice.
Adrian Troy, Marketing Director at AG Barr, said: “A huge congratulations to Miriam on completing this intense 3000-mile journey.
“It was phenomenal to see a can of Irn-Bru being enjoyed in such a remote location, miles from anywhere, and we're pleased it could help to power her through. We will ensure she has a stocked fridge of Irn-Bru for her arrival home.”
Known as the ‘world’s toughest row’, the Atlantic Challenge is one of the most demanding endurance events on the planet.
Miriam was only one of six to take on the challenge solo, meaning she had to endure through the choppy winter weather all alone.
There are just 43 crews in total from across the globe in this year's race and many are still on their journey to the finish line. The previous fastest solo female record was 59 days, 19 hours and 14 minutes.
She set off on the world's toughest row to fundraise for two charities, ’Wellbeing of Woman’ and ‘Hull and East Yorkshire Mind’. Donations to these organisations can be made here .
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