Two former Royal Marine Commandos have successfully completed an extraordinary 3,200-mile row across the Atlantic, arriving safely in Antigua after weeks at sea.
Sean Phelps, from Portland, and Jonny Towers, from Rossendale, set off from Lanzarote on 24 January 2026 as part of the Atlantic Dash challenge, raising money and awareness for Care after Combat and Samaritans.
The pair, who served together in the Royal Marines with tours including Iraq and Northern Ireland, undertook the challenge in their drag alter egos – Dixie and Drillia – becoming the first known team to row an ocean in drag. They said the idea was both a light-hearted nod to Royal Marines traditions and a way to keep morale high during the demanding journey.
Their crossing, which covered more than 3,200 miles, saw them burn around 6,000 calories a day while facing the physical and mental challenges of life at sea for over two months.
Behind the humour, the mission carried a serious message. Both men are passionate advocates for mental health and resilience, drawing on their own life experiences to encourage others to speak openly and seek support during difficult times.
Throughout the journey, they have raised more than £15,000 for their chosen charities. Care after Combat supports former Armed Forces personnel, including those in the justice system, while Samaritans provides vital emotional support to people in distress or at risk of suicide.
Sean, the youngest of 11 children, served seven years in the Royal Marines before becoming a prison officer and physical education instructor. He has completed numerous endurance challenges and is a strong advocate for mental wellbeing.
Jonny, originally from Blackburn, joined the Royal Marines at 17 and later built a successful career in construction. A keen sportsman, he has taken on multiple endurance events, with the Atlantic crossing described as his toughest challenge yet.
Their journey, under the banner of “Changing Tides,” has combined endurance, humour and a powerful message — proving that even the toughest challenges can be faced with determination, teamwork and openness.
Supporters followed their progress across social media, celebrating as the pair safely reached Antigua, marking the end of a remarkable and record-breaking adventure.
