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Vier vrouwen en een boot
Op 20 december 2015 roeiden zevenentwintig teams de haven van La Gomera uit. Het waren allemaal getrainde sporters, op één team na. Dat bestond uit vier doodgewone vrouwen, die op het punt stonden een uitzonderlijke prestatie te leveren.
La Gomera was de startplaats van de Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge, ofwel de zwaarste, moeilijkste en uitdagendste roeiwedstrijd ter wereld. Deelnemers moeten 3000 mijl over de Atlantische Oceaan afleggen, waarbij blaren, haaien, zeeziekte en ernstig slaaptekort meer regel dan uitzondering zijn.
Maar Janette, Niki, Helen en Frances hadden een droom, en niets – of dat nu hun ietwat gevorderde leeftijden, kinderen, banen of echtgenoten waren – kon ze tegenhouden!
La Gomera was de startplaats van de Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge, ofwel de zwaarste, moeilijkste en uitdagendste roeiwedstrijd ter wereld. Deelnemers moeten 3000 mijl over de Atlantische Oceaan afleggen, waarbij blaren, haaien, zeeziekte en ernstig slaaptekort meer regel dan uitzondering zijn.
Maar Janette, Niki, Helen en Frances hadden een droom, en niets – of dat nu hun ietwat gevorderde leeftijden, kinderen, banen of echtgenoten waren – kon ze tegenhouden!
318 pages, Paperback
Published August 15, 2017
28 people are currently reading
166 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
July 29, 2017
A most inspiring story!! Buy this book for every woman you know
March 25, 2018
Once I started reading this amazing story I couldn't stop. Four mums (with an average age of 47) row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic ocean (one of the most dangerous oceans in the world) in the Talisker Whisky Altantic Challenge. It's an honest account which makes you laugh, cry but more importantly it's incredibly inspiring.
March 1, 2018
Absolutely loved this book - I laughed out loud, cried (on the train) & felt completely inspired throughout. I finished it feeling like I'd love to go for a drink with these 4 fantastic women.
November 5, 2018
Auch wenn das ein oder andere Stück des Buches ein wenig redundant ist, macht es Spass und Eindruck, die vier Engländerinnen auf ihrer Reise über den Atlantik sowie auch bei ihren Vorbereitungen für das Rennen zu begleiten. Sie schreiben offen und ehrlich, welche Hürden sie nehmen mussten, damit sie es überhaupt soweit geschafft haben, das Rennen anzutreten. Und sie zeigen auf, was das Rennen mit ihnen gemacht und wie es sie verändert hat. Für mich ist die eigentliche Fahrt über den Atlantik fast ein bisschen zu kurz gekommen und ich hätte gerne noch mehr über die Tage auf hoher See erfahren. Trotzdem eine spannende und beeindruckende Geschichte!
August 7, 2018
Ahh I loved this book ...it shows that anyone can do anything and how it is great to have adventures and challenges in our lives, it can be so fulfilling and positive, like it was for Niki, Janette, Helen and Frances. This is such an honest recount of the highs and lows of four lovely ladies (who I felt that you really got to know in the book), taking on the Talisker Whiskey Challenge of rowing across the Atlantic and smashing it. Huge congratulations to them. They have inspired me (and a lot of other ladies, I'm sure) to sign up to something challenging that takes you to the simple life of the great outdoors, where the moon and stars look like fairy lights!
December 29, 2021
What an excellent book! The story of 4 women who decided to row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic from La Gomera to Antigua. Starting with the preparations and fundraising to the crossing and after-math. This book details the highs and lows of such an epic adventure, the challenges they faced and how they overcame them. I have so much admiration for them. This book made me cry! I could not put this book down.
October 8, 2023
Inspirierende Geschichte, die Lust auf mehr macht und nachdenken lässt was im Leben zählt und wichtig ist. Lustig und humorvoll und vor allem ehrlich erzählt/geschrieben. Es gab Stellen, da kamen mir die Tränen und bei anderen wiederum musste ich laut lachen.
Leseempfehlung und fun fact.. ich habe es bei den runtergesetzten Büchern - in der Wühlkiste - für 4,99€ gefunden. Ist eben immer für eine Überraschung gut 😊
Leseempfehlung und fun fact.. ich habe es bei den runtergesetzten Büchern - in der Wühlkiste - für 4,99€ gefunden. Ist eben immer für eine Überraschung gut 😊
October 13, 2018
WOW just WOW
What an amazing adventure - I would just love to do that.
An inspiring story of amazing friendship, honesty, hard work, effort and belief.
What an amazing adventure - I would just love to do that.
An inspiring story of amazing friendship, honesty, hard work, effort and belief.
November 22, 2017
Leuk om te lezen en het inspireert en motiveert me wel (ik ben ook een amateurroeier/werkende moeder), maar op een gegeven moment wist ik het wel.
December 14, 2017
I loved this book, it shows what people can do if they put their minds to it. There was no holds barred in this book, the good, the bad, the ugly and the naked were all on show there was no sugar coating and it seemed 100% honest. Pride in their successes was very much evident and there were a great many successes, I honestly never realised just what it took to just get to the start line of a boat race and that’s one of the reasons I loved this book it was very educational. Not only did they share their successes they also shared their failures and the times they got angry with each other. A few laugh out loud moments too mostly due to nakedness ‘Get your vulva out of my face’ was one that had me guffawing and cringing all at the same time. These women are truly inspirational because they had an idea and then they went through with it despite all the hardships they endured, one of them even battled chronic seasickness. Each chapter ends with a Ships log which contains inspiration advice, I looked forward to those every time. This is definitely on my re-read list.
March 28, 2018
I guess if I were to tell someone that the actual rowing of the Atlantic is only about 30% of the book they might think this is not worth it. But the whole thing is written in such a positive and upbeat light, it’s impossible not to get dragged into it.
These four women are so spectacular, so supportive and brave and they went through a really intense experience, but you wouldn’t know it from reading how they talk about it. I picked up this book at a Nautical Museum and I can’t believe more people aren’t talking about it. It’s truly incredible, not just the fact that they rowed across the atlantic at 40 something, but that they were able to stand by each other’s side through thick and thin, in that tiny little boat, through 2 years of fundraisers and training and kids and marriages. It’s truly special and I will recommend it to all the women I know. When we come together something really amazing happens and I wish I could see more stories like this.
These four women are so spectacular, so supportive and brave and they went through a really intense experience, but you wouldn’t know it from reading how they talk about it. I picked up this book at a Nautical Museum and I can’t believe more people aren’t talking about it. It’s truly incredible, not just the fact that they rowed across the atlantic at 40 something, but that they were able to stand by each other’s side through thick and thin, in that tiny little boat, through 2 years of fundraisers and training and kids and marriages. It’s truly special and I will recommend it to all the women I know. When we come together something really amazing happens and I wish I could see more stories like this.
December 12, 2022
It’s was alright.
Trouble with these books about an endurance test is the actual event turns out to be “it was hard and tough, we suffered but it was worth it”
Because of that more time is spent on the lead up, fund raising and the finish.
Much respect for completing it, no idea that it would be such a costly endeavour, out of reach for most people.
Interesting how the four of them reacted differently to the conditions and the least likely being the most determined when it came to the rowing.
Glad I read it, luckily in less time than they took to row.
Trouble with these books about an endurance test is the actual event turns out to be “it was hard and tough, we suffered but it was worth it”
Because of that more time is spent on the lead up, fund raising and the finish.
Much respect for completing it, no idea that it would be such a costly endeavour, out of reach for most people.
Interesting how the four of them reacted differently to the conditions and the least likely being the most determined when it came to the rowing.
Glad I read it, luckily in less time than they took to row.
March 21, 2017
Absolutely wild true story about four friends who rowed across the atlantic and set a world record. I couldn't stop listening (audiobook version). Inspiring and beautifully written. It is easy to feel like you are right there with them on the boat. This story will stay with me for a long time. Loved it!
December 21, 2017
Loved this book about a group of proper Adventure Queens. I remember seeing them on the telly at the time so it was great to catch up with their journey. We all need to have adventures even if they are not on such an epic scale. Highly recommended.
July 3, 2018
I alternated between reading and listening to this book. I had it on my kindle, but at times listened to via a talking book. I have to admit the talking book was much more enjoyable and I really got into the emotions that these four women gave when talking about their journey.
Janette, Frances, Helen and Niki are all full time mums working full time jobs. One day they decided that they were going to cross 3,000 miles of treacherous ocean in the toughest row in the world, The Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge. There was no fore planning, just a crazy idea cooked up over a few glasses of wine. It took two years to plan and they were away for two months, and this was their story.
What an exhilarating story! I remember seeing these ladies on breakfast television either before they left or when they had returned and thinking what amazing women they were! Their tales of not just how they actually survived out on the oceans, but the planning and preparation beforehand and how it affected their families was absolutely mesmerising and had me hooked!
An incredibly inspiring story! Well done ladies!
Janette, Frances, Helen and Niki are all full time mums working full time jobs. One day they decided that they were going to cross 3,000 miles of treacherous ocean in the toughest row in the world, The Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge. There was no fore planning, just a crazy idea cooked up over a few glasses of wine. It took two years to plan and they were away for two months, and this was their story.
What an exhilarating story! I remember seeing these ladies on breakfast television either before they left or when they had returned and thinking what amazing women they were! Their tales of not just how they actually survived out on the oceans, but the planning and preparation beforehand and how it affected their families was absolutely mesmerising and had me hooked!
An incredibly inspiring story! Well done ladies!
June 1, 2020
Nice to read a rowing story about women over 40, and also about a very different race than lake or river races. The 4 mums competed in the Talisker Atlantic Challenge, rowing for about 2 months on the open ocean from December 2015 to February 2016. There was only 1 other female team in the race. (There have been more since then.)
The book clearly describes the physical toll of seasickness, sores, blisters, and other injuries (one rower fractured her coccyx). Although the mental toll of claustrophobia and isolation sounds like the worst part. It's impressive that a group of 4 middle-aged women with no history of athletic achievement could do this. Although I suspect that the book undersells their rowing ability. They talk about crashing into things and being terrible rowers, but you don't end up a terrible rower after training for 2 years.
It's written by the skipper, not a professional writer, so it's not as engaging as The Boys in the Boat.
The book clearly describes the physical toll of seasickness, sores, blisters, and other injuries (one rower fractured her coccyx). Although the mental toll of claustrophobia and isolation sounds like the worst part. It's impressive that a group of 4 middle-aged women with no history of athletic achievement could do this. Although I suspect that the book undersells their rowing ability. They talk about crashing into things and being terrible rowers, but you don't end up a terrible rower after training for 2 years.
It's written by the skipper, not a professional writer, so it's not as engaging as The Boys in the Boat.
June 3, 2023
I did not want this book to end! I was left wanting more. I cannot agree with reviewers who felt their jobs and placement in life made rowing easier for these ladies. It was apparent the very essence of who these women are in their life and job circle is a testament to what was able to give them the determination to cross the Atlantic with oars to propel them. The observation that they did not clean off their boat shows inexperience to comprehending that barnacles can create that much drag. I can understand their reluctance to jump into water not knowing what shark might be lurking nearby. Like any first time race their is a learning curve.
At least three times I laughed hysterically out loud at different passages. I have already two people wanting to borrow this book. I look forward to their comments!
At least three times I laughed hysterically out loud at different passages. I have already two people wanting to borrow this book. I look forward to their comments!
November 4, 2021
Wow! What an adventure. This is about 4 mums who decided to cross the Atlantic Ocean.
As a person who hates boats and sailing this whole thing sounded completely horrendous from beginning to end!! This book is written by the four ladies and tells us where they started from, why they did it and their journey across the ocean. They don’t sugar coat anything. They tell it as it is and I did think “why on earth would anyone do that??”
The bit that has stayed with me the most, however, is how they have all changed since the race and how it has affected their lives. There are quite a few inspirational quotes at the end !
There is a good YouTube video to watch afterwards.
Well done ladies. I loved it
As a person who hates boats and sailing this whole thing sounded completely horrendous from beginning to end!! This book is written by the four ladies and tells us where they started from, why they did it and their journey across the ocean. They don’t sugar coat anything. They tell it as it is and I did think “why on earth would anyone do that??”
The bit that has stayed with me the most, however, is how they have all changed since the race and how it has affected their lives. There are quite a few inspirational quotes at the end !
There is a good YouTube video to watch afterwards.
Well done ladies. I loved it
December 1, 2019
I expected this story to be inspirational, but it's about so much more than that. It's about the value of friendship, the positivity of people supporting each other and the beauty of life - by fully embracing what's on offer and sometimes just by appreciating the little things. We all can't do big achievements like row an ocean every day, but we can try to live according to the example set by these fabulous women. This book made me cry and laugh out loud in public places. A fantastic story and a book I will treasure. Thank you ladies! xxxx
August 19, 2024
Love stories of anyone doing g amazing things. This didn’t disappoint, how could it! It’s true and well written.
Loved hearing the back story of where each woman came from, how the idea came together and the journey of grit and perseverance.
I have no desire to row an ocean but reading such stories is so inspiring. It makes us think about what we would like to try or achieve, and think beyond the perceived barriers.
This is my second read about a group of women rowing the Atlantic. Huge respect! Well done ladies.
Worth a read.
Loved hearing the back story of where each woman came from, how the idea came together and the journey of grit and perseverance.
I have no desire to row an ocean but reading such stories is so inspiring. It makes us think about what we would like to try or achieve, and think beyond the perceived barriers.
This is my second read about a group of women rowing the Atlantic. Huge respect! Well done ladies.
Worth a read.
November 28, 2024
This was a great read. What an adventure. And how real and honest are they all in their telling of it.
What they achieved - rowing across the Atlantic is amazing. It's even more amazing when you realise, through their honest writing, that they weren't that well prepared in practical terms. They didn't know their equipment and how to fix it, horribly broke the rules of radio comms, didn't seem to understand weather, planned their food as though they were picnicking on land, and forgot most of the good advice they'd been given. And they did it!
What they achieved - rowing across the Atlantic is amazing. It's even more amazing when you realise, through their honest writing, that they weren't that well prepared in practical terms. They didn't know their equipment and how to fix it, horribly broke the rules of radio comms, didn't seem to understand weather, planned their food as though they were picnicking on land, and forgot most of the good advice they'd been given. And they did it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 23, 2017
Read it!
This book was recommended by a very close friend whose son , along with 3 others, are going to do this same challenge this year. I wanted to understand why someone would want to do it and what those Irish lads were going to be letting themselves in for!!!
Fantastic narration. Very inspiring. Hard to put down . I don't enjoy many books but I loved this one! I am in awe of those very strong women.
Now I can empathize with the Relentless Rowers this November!!
This book was recommended by a very close friend whose son , along with 3 others, are going to do this same challenge this year. I wanted to understand why someone would want to do it and what those Irish lads were going to be letting themselves in for!!!
Fantastic narration. Very inspiring. Hard to put down . I don't enjoy many books but I loved this one! I am in awe of those very strong women.
Now I can empathize with the Relentless Rowers this November!!
June 22, 2018
Once I read a few pages of Four Mums in a Boat by Janette Benaddi, Helen Butters, Niki Doeg, Frances Davies I could not stop. I laughed out loud throughout this book and then cried. What a Inspiration these lovely ladies are. A wonderful true story and beautifully written book about four ordinary working mums from Yorkshire who took on an extraordinary challenge and broke a world record along the way.
Well done Ladies......
Well done Ladies......
July 28, 2019
Ein fesselnder Reisebericht von vier Frauen, die sich trotz Job, Kinder, Männern und ihrem nicht mehr ganz so jungen Alter, für den irren Plan entscheiden, an der Talisker Challenge teilzunehmen und als älteste Frauen überhaupt den Atlantik im Ruderboot zu überqueren.
Spannend natürlich, wenn man sich generell fürs Rudern und die Talisker Challenge interessiert, aber auch darüber hinaus wahnsinnig inspirierend und beeindruckend, was das Team geleistet hat!
Spannend natürlich, wenn man sich generell fürs Rudern und die Talisker Challenge interessiert, aber auch darüber hinaus wahnsinnig inspirierend und beeindruckend, was das Team geleistet hat!
January 17, 2020
Inspirational
This real life story is gripping and inspirational. Every single aspect of the adventure is reported, from the smallest detail of planning to the mightiest of waves. The emotional journey is as moving as the physical journey is amazing.
At times I felt the back story was a bit slow, but as with the incredible journey itself, the tale soon picked up speed and carried the reader through the peaks and troughs of such an amazing adventure.
This real life story is gripping and inspirational. Every single aspect of the adventure is reported, from the smallest detail of planning to the mightiest of waves. The emotional journey is as moving as the physical journey is amazing.
At times I felt the back story was a bit slow, but as with the incredible journey itself, the tale soon picked up speed and carried the reader through the peaks and troughs of such an amazing adventure.
July 22, 2018
Geweldig boek! Niki, Janette, Helen en Frances zijn vier dames van middelbare leeftijd met kinderen, een echtgenoot en een baan die tonen dat het nooit te laat is om iets geks te doen. Heel inspirerend. In het boek spreken ze over leuke en minder leuke momenten, over hun leuke en minder leuke kantjes, over hoe vier gewone dames het redden in een roeiboot midden in de oceaan.
August 19, 2018
A great story of taking up a challenge, in this case to row across the Atlantic Ocean. I am inspired. My friends don't seem to want to join me on such an adventure though!!! However, the book does make you want to say yes to new things, it reminds you of the important things in life, a valuable read.
February 15, 2020
A well written and very powerful adventure
What a great narrative of 4 women who rowed 3000 miles across the Atlantic. These women were not super athletes but the woman next door type who surprised themselves. I think that their thoughts on what really matters in life, after their completion, gives much insight into what matters in life
What a great narrative of 4 women who rowed 3000 miles across the Atlantic. These women were not super athletes but the woman next door type who surprised themselves. I think that their thoughts on what really matters in life, after their completion, gives much insight into what matters in life
October 3, 2020
A n inspirational read
It just goes to show that no matter what age you are, you can get out there and challenge yourself. One of the quotes said - if you don't ask, the answer is always no. If you don't step forward, you're always in the same place. So be bold and always ask and always step forward.
It just goes to show that no matter what age you are, you can get out there and challenge yourself. One of the quotes said - if you don't ask, the answer is always no. If you don't step forward, you're always in the same place. So be bold and always ask and always step forward.
January 7, 2022
A bit slow to start with but once got into.it I really enjoyed it, made me want to do something so adventurous but my friends would never go for it. Made my cry when they arrived in Antigua, felt like I'd been on the journey with them, if only. Loved it, inspirational read from fellow yorkshire women.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews