To many, ocean rowing appears to be a risky venture. As with all serious sports however, it must be recognised that the perceived danger is in fact much greater than the actual risk. While there are of course real risks, equally evident are the steps taken to minimise and mitigate them by Olly and the Global Row team though the meticulous campaign organisation and expedition preparation.

Processes will be implemented to evaluate and control possible hazards at all times, backed up by contingency and crisis management plans that take all aspects of the Global Row campaign into account. Having undertaken vast comprehensive research into all aspects of the expedition during the planning stage, the feasibility of the voyage has been proven. Whilst the voyage is by no means without obstacles or risk, with sufficient prior preparation there is no reason why the objective of the challenge can not be achieved.

Whilst not achieving the ultimate goal of rowing around the world, the 2009 Global Row voyage clearly demonstrated that solo travel in an ocean-going rowing boat at wild latitudes was entirely possible - Olly knows that with the necessary funding this incredible feat of bravery and strength is attainable.

The main risk to the expedition is the accumulation of ice on the vessel's superstructure, thus raising the centre of mass and making her unstable and more liable to capsize. This problem will be mitigated in several ways. The boat will not founder if it does capsize but will right herself automatically, and the two stages of the voyage have been planned to take place when there are generally not conditions which are conducive to icing. Olly will winter in South Georgia over the winter with the Southern Ocean conditions are most suited to icing, so he will thus avoid this potential risk completely.  Should freak conditions cause icing, Olly will have the tools and chemicals on board to remove the ice.

The other main risk to the success of the voyage is the remoteness of the regions which the Global Row will pass through. This makes any form of assistance, should it become necessary, very difficult. To minimise this problem Olly will maximise the self sufficiency of the vessel by carrying a mast and sail, enabling him to get out of trouble and to a save haven, unaided. It also needs to be recognised that his boat is designed for survival and to withstand conditions in these extreme regions, unlike many of the yachts that venture to these parts which are built for speed rather than safety. Olly's boat will be watertight, self-righting, self-draining, and generally far more seaworthy than most yachts.

Comprehensive weather studies undertaken by Olly show that he will encounter severe storms en route. Of course this is to be expected and managed accordingly. Previous expeditions have proven the viability of rowing in the Southern Ocean and not it remains to show that it can be sustained for a long period. My boat which is crucial to the success of the expedition is being built without budgetary constraints and built to the highest standard possible. This approach will be taken in all aspects of the expedition, the highest standards will be adhered to in all areas of planning, preparation and execution.

The state of the art on-board technical capabilities of the vessel, which are constantly tested and updated, ensure that Olly is in contact with his shore team at all times. Olly will be carrying Emergency Position indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB), incorporating a GPS with a transmitter and homing signal. In the event of an emergency an alert signal is transmitted to the Copsas –Sarsat satellites and forwarded to a rescue co-ordination centre, typically within three minutes. The integral GPS will provide the latitude and longitude co-ordinates to the rescue services to an accuracy of 30 metres, anywhere in the world.

Spares of all essential technological and communication equipment are also stowed on board.

Olly will be equipped with an extremely comprehensive medical kit, and is trained in first aid and medical proficiency for ships. Olly will be undertaking further training with the British Antarctic Survey before his departure.

Due to its reinforced plastic and foam and kevlar construction, the revolutionary boat design ensures that the vessel is immensely strong and impact resistant. The boat is also self righting and will undergo a series of rigorous sea trials before departure.  The boat will be equipped with a desalinator (ensuring that fresh water is available at all times), and a 10 month supply of both food and clothing.

These are just a few examples of how Olly has thoroughly researched his expedition and worked to mitigate all possible risk. A full risk analysis and expedition feasibility report is available from the Global Row team.

Olly has crossed the Atlantic, the Tasman and has endured three hurricanes at sea - he knows that the world first expedition is well within his grasp.

A full feasibility report and comprehensive risk analysis is available on request.