Gábor Rakonczay Completes Solo Atlantic Crossing in Canoe
Extreme athlete Gábor Rakonczay has completed his final expedition, crossing the Atlantic Ocean alone in his canoe in 75 days and 10 hours. The 44-year-old adventurer announced on Facebook that this journey marks the end of his 18-year career in extreme sports.
Rakonczay shared his thoughts on the experience, expressing that he undertook the challenge to witness the power that drives the world. This successful voyage, spanning 5,123 kilometers, is his second ocean crossing after a 77-day trip in 2012.
His arrival in Antigua was greeted by live broadcasts on social media, attracting an audience of approximately 15,000 viewers. Welcomed by cheers from a boat that sailed out to meet him, Rakonczay reflected on the difficulties he faced towards the end of his journey, including fatigue, a broken thumb, and dwindling food supplies.
Originally scheduled to embark on December 16 from the Canary Islands, weather conditions delayed Rakonczay’s departure until December 23. Equipped with a specially designed canoe featuring a cabin, he set off on his 65-day expedition.
Having reconfigured the boat in preparation for this challenge, Rakonczay enhanced its capabilities based on his experience from previous expeditions. His remarkable career includes achievements such as four ocean crossings with a sailboat, two ocean crossings with a canoe, two Greenland crossings, a 44-day Antarctic expedition, and a world ultramarathon championship title.
As a two-time Guinness World Record holder and recipient of prestigious awards, Rakonczay is recognized for his unparalleled accomplishments in extreme sports. With the support of his family, friends, followers, and design team, he has left an indelible mark on the world of adventure sports.
