Extreme South African adventurer Zirk Botha has set world records as the first person to row the south transatlantic crossing to Brazil alone, and unsupported by any safety craft, and for the fastest row on the route.
Stepping off his boat Ratel onto Brazilian soil with wobbly legs after months at sea, the first thing Botha wanted was a burger, chips and a Coke.
The 59-year-old former naval officer completed his solo crossing from Cape Town to Brazil in a record of 70 days, 4 000 nautical miles, arriving there on Saturday.
He rowed to raise awareness about the planet and sustainable development.
Botha said coping with the weather at sea has been physically and mentally draining.
He also lost an estimated 10kg.
“I am waiting for verification, but I believe this is the longest distance rowed by a South African solo rower on any route,” he said.