Kelsey Pfendler, a Grand Canyon river rafting guide, has made history by becoming the first American woman and the fastest person to row solo across the mid-Pacific from California to Hawaii.
The 32-year-old completed her journey on Friday, July 3, as hundreds gathered at Honolulu Harbor to celebrate her achievement.
Pfendler set out from Monterey on May 21 in her 21-foot rowboat, Lily. She completed the more than 2,400-mile journey in just under 44 days, shattering the previous women’s record of 86 days and the men’s record of 52 days, according to the Ocean Rowing Society International. Her journey was followed by thousands on social media, where she shared her experiences and challenges, including blistered hands and sleep deprivation.
Pfendler’s mission extended beyond personal achievement. She aimed to inspire others and raise awareness for the Whale Foundation, a nonprofit supporting the Grand Canyon river guiding community. Her efforts have raised over $30,000 for the foundation.
In an interview with Outside Online, Pfendler shared insights into her journey, emphasizing the importance of mental and physical resilience. She described the ocean as vast and humbling, and expressed gratitude for the support of her stuffed animal companions, Hugo the crab and Maury the octopus.
Pfendler’s accomplishment is not her first Pacific crossing. In 2024, she led a team of women in a rowing expedition to Kauai. Now, she looks forward to resting and celebrating her birthday, while continuing to inspire others to pursue their own “big, hard, scary thing.”
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