An Irish man has won the solo class in the World's Toughest Row – a gruelling 4,800km journey across the Atlantic.
Daragh MacLoughlin, 42, crossed the finishing line in Antigua earlier this morning, in a time of 39 days, 20 hours and 16 minutes.
He was greeted by cheering friends and family waving Irish flags, including his wife Suzanne and daughters Maeve and Saoirse
"It was everything I could have wanted and more.
"The ocean is a lonely place and for the most part I did really, really well.
"But my two girls and my wife really drove me forward. It was really great to have them push me on."
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The World's Toughest Row got under way last month from La Gomera in the Canary Islands, with 43 teams in different classes taking part.
The Galway businessman has been raising funds for two Irish charities – Debra, which supports those living with 'Butterfly Skin' disease EB, and Irish Dogs for the Disabled.
"I dedicate this race to my two girls. I want them to know in life everything is possible. If you have a dream and you apply yourself, and you work hard, you can do or be anything you want.
"I never rowed before. But I've just crossed an ocean. I just want them to know that's possible. They were my inspiration," he said.
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