Rower Crossing the Atlantic Found Deceased on His Vessel

Michael Holt, a Welsh solo rower with Type I diabetes, has been found dead in his boat after falling ill mid-voyage. Holt had embarked on the row as a charity challenge, facing a unique personal challenge due to previous shoulder injuries that required extensive reconstructive surgery. Departing from Gran Canaria on January 27, Holt fell ill off the coast of Cape Verde on February 20, prompting him to abort his voyage and head for São Vicente in the Cape Verde Islands.

Despite his intentions to reach shore under his own power, Holt ceased communication with his support team, leading to a rescue operation coordinated with authorities in Cape Verde. The fishing vessel Noruego eventually found Holt dead in his boat’s cabin on February 25. The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is supporting Holt’s family and working with Cape Verde authorities. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to raise funds for repatriating Holt’s remains.

Holt’s voyage, as a type 1 diabetic, was groundbreaking and inspiring but carried increased risks. Despite taking measures to manage his condition during the row, the extreme nature of his challenge made him uninsurable. The family expressed the difficulties in securing help for Holt in his final days and emphasized the risks associated with such extreme endeavors.

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