The ocean covers over 70% of our planet, but despite its vastness, it faces a number of threats that put its biodiversity and ecosystem health at risk. One of the ways in which people are raising awareness of these issues is through ocean challenges, where individuals or teams undertake a grueling physical feat to raise money and awareness for ocean conservation.

Through training and preparation, participants gain a deeper understanding of ocean conservation issues, as well as the physical and mental stamina required to undertake a challenging ocean journey. This understanding can help participants become better advocates for ocean conservation, sharing their knowledge and experience with others and helping to inspire change in their communities.

The Talisker Whiskey Challenge

The Talisker Whiskey Challenge is an annual event that takes place in December, in which teams of two to four row across the Atlantic Ocean, covering over 3,000 nautical miles from La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Antigua in the Caribbean. The challenge was established in 1997 and has since raised millions of dollars for various charities, including ocean conservation organizations.

Great Pacific Race

The Talisker Whiskey Challenge is just one of the many ocean challenges that are helping to raise awareness of the challenges facing our oceans. Other challenges include the Great Pacific Race, in which teams of three or four row across the Pacific Ocean from California to Hawaii. The race covers a distance of approximately 2,400 nautical miles and is considered to be one of the toughest endurance challenges in the world. The race is open to both solo and team rowers, who must navigate through challenging conditions such as rough seas, strong winds, and extreme temperatures. Along the way, participants witness firsthand the impacts of plastic pollution and climate change on the ocean and its inhabitants.

Florida Keys Lionfish Derby

The Florida Keys Lionfish Derby is an annual event aimed at controlling the invasive lionfish population in the Florida Keys. Lionfish are not native to the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea and were first introduced by humans in the mid-1980s. Since then, their population has exploded, causing significant damage to native fish populations and coral reefs. The derby is a fun and educational event that engages local communities in the effort to control the lionfish population.

During the derby, teams of divers compete to catch as many lionfish as possible, and prizes are awarded for the largest and smallest catches. The event also includes educational workshops and tastings of lionfish dishes to raise awareness about the invasive species and its potential as a sustainable seafood source. The Florida Keys Lionfish Derby is an example of how community involvement and education can help combat environmental challenges like invasive species and promote sustainable practices.