Lyme Disease UK’s Natasha Metcalf, caught up with ocean rowers, David Murray and Barry Hayes, to discuss Team Seasoar’s World’s Toughest Row. Check out the video below to better understand the highs and lows of life at sea.
David Murray and Guy Rigby
David Murray
David Murray is a serial adventure sportsman who has embarked on numerous gruelling challenges, putting both his physical and mental capabilities to the test. With rowing partner, Guy Rigby, David achieved a world record as the oldest pair to row any ocean following their Atlantic row in 2021/22. Impressively they also raised over £750k for charity in the process.
David Murray
Until the age of 43 David enjoyed the good things in life, running a successful software development company and a small holding on his 12-acre farm, plus finding time for the odd game of squash! However, after suffering a prolapsed disc due to his weight, he needed to do something about it or face surgery. On the advice of his surgeon, he began Pilates classes and then gradually took up running, quickly becoming hooked. Numerous marathons, ultra-running races and half ironman triathlons later, David’s now also completed the following challenges!
- Spine Race (2024): 108-mile non-stop run through the southern section of the Pennines.
- Marathon des Sables (2023): 250km self-supported race across the Sahara Desert.
- Cycled John O’Groats to Land’s End: 1,150 miles in 9 days.
- 7 Full IRONMAN: Placed in the top 5% of his age group.
When both of his parents sadly became sick with cancer, David turned his attention to fundraising. Through his new venture, Be Your Best Version, he helps individuals, teams, charities and corporate sponsors achieve excellent outcomes across a variety of events.
Barry Hayes
In 2013 after his dad fell into a coma at a relatively young age, Barry realised the importance of filling life with amazing experiences – and with that he rowed across the Pacific Ocean.
Having never rowed a boat before making this decision, and with his ocean experience being confined to a drunken ferry trip to France, it was quite an extreme undertaking. The crossing was life-changing. He quickly realised that a powerful space lies outside of your comfort zone, and how that space is where all the magic happens! He went on to row the Indian Ocean in 70 days as an independent crew and has spent the rest of his time supporting other adventurers in achieving their own extreme adventure goals. As founder of Shark Bait Socials, Barry is providing riveting social media content for Team Seasoar whilst they are out rowing at sea.
Barry lives in North Wales with his family and his two dogs. One day he’d like to add a solo ocean row to his CV.
Barry Hayes