Jennifer Figge

February 25, 2009
I wanted to let you know that I’ve returned to the U.S. following a most amazing, unforgettable odyssey.

Leaving Brava, Cape Verde Islands with an overwhelming sense of freedom, and in the spirit of my sport, I let go of the land on January 14th. When one commits to an ocean, you must be prepared to embrace whatever it holds for you. The Atlantic was consumed by a rare and relentless wind event along the North Equatorial current. Swimming as planned in a cage lasted only one hour. In seas with waves 20- to more than 30-feet high, it became an extreme swimming expedition rather than one of endurance.

As always, the ocean dictates the way you swim it... I had to stay one to two football fields away from "Carried Away," the support catamaran. The captain required all hands on deck so that they wouldn't lose me. The rescue diver we met in Cape Verde who joined us on the adventure had to be able to get me back on the boat without injury to either one of us. Often I could not see the catamaran... only the top of the mast and the American flag, which I followed for wind direction.

There were visitors along the way - Portuguese man-of-war, whales, turtles, dolphins… and you. I could never consider this crossing a personal accomplishment, as I took everyone I know with me, and it belongs to them.

I am saddened that the sea took our boat, but thankful that no one on board or those who helped us in Tobago was harmed. At some point, I will review my diary and logs and determine if the material rescued from the wreck is salvageable. But that’s not a priority. I lived the adventure, and I’m not prepared yet to re-live it. Right now, I’m enjoying being in the arms of my family and looking forward to returning to friends back home.

Thank you for being part of a most memorable time in my life. The sea always beckons, and I anticipate returning to it soon.

Jennifer
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February 25, 2009
I wanted to let you know that I’ve returned to the U.S. following a most amazing, unforgettable odyssey.

Leaving Brava, Cape Verde Islands with an overwhelming sense of freedom, and in the spirit of my sport, I let go of the land on January 14th. When one commits to an ocean, you must be prepared to embrace whatever it holds for you. The Atlantic was consumed by a rare and relentless wind event along the North Equatorial current. Swimming as planned in a cage lasted only one... (read more)