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Seven Hills teacher plans to row across Atlantic Ocean alone

Posted at 4:30 AM, Jun 05, 2018
and last updated 2018-06-05 11:57:21-04

CINCINNATI -- Some people row for pleasure. Bryce Carlson aspires for more.

"I'm planning to become the first American to row solo across the North Atlantic Ocean," he said. 

Carlson is making sure he has everything he needs to make it. He plans to row 2,000 miles from St. John's, Newfoundland, to southwest England.

"The goal is to carry a lot more food than I think I'm going to need in case it takes a lot longer than planned," he said. 

Carlson expects the trip to take between 50 and 60 days, but that could change depending on whether he gets bad or favorable winds.

To train, he's spent a lot of time rowing at East Fork Lake. He's also a rowing coach at Seven Hills School, where he teaches biology.

Carlson also got an expensive customized boat. It features an extra solar panel and a small space where he can sleep. He said he's maxed out his credit and has a GoFundMe page. He named the boat Lucille, after his grandmother. Carlson said she was a strong woman who always supported him.

"I'm feeling confident that I'll be able to complete this challenge," he said. 

Carlson will set off around June 18. He hopes to return with a record set and a dream realized. 

Anyone interested will be able to watch Carlson's journey on his website.