Sarah trains for oar-inspiring feat

A 23-year-old who plans to be the first woman to row solo across the Indian Ocean has been testing her boat on Rutland Water.

Sarah Outen, of Buckingham Road, Oakham, launched her 24ft fibreglass boat at Whitwell at the weekend.

Serendipity will be Sarah's home for three months during her 3,000-mile voyage across the Indian Ocean, due to start in March.

Sarah, who is rowing in memory of her late father, also hopes to be the youngest and fastest person to make the crossing.

The weekend launch marked the start of Sarah's rigorous training regime.

Sarah said: "I was very keen to train on Rutland Water, as it is right on my doorstep. I spent a lot of time here through my childhood."

Sarah decided to make the voyage a dedication to her father, who died two years ago after suffering for more than 20 years from rheumatoid arthritis.

Supporters, and anyone else who is interested in hearing more about the trip, are invited to join her for a talk at Stamford High School on November 28.

For more information about the voyage, visit:

www.sarahouten.co.uk