Kelsey Pfendler

Kelsey Pfendler is a professional river guide and ocean adventurer with a career focused on water-based expeditions and outdoor leadership. Pfendler began working as a professional raft guide at age 18 and has led trips along the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon for several years. This extensive experience with rivers and remote waterways provided the foundation for her subsequent open-ocean expeditions and achievements in ocean rowing.

Pfendler's experience includes serving as skipper of Hericane Rowing, where she and four other women completed a Pacific crossing from Monterey to Kauai. The team faced significant challenges, including large waves, a capsizing, equipment failures, and adverse currents. This demanding voyage contributed to Pfendler's preparation for a solo mid-Pacific crossing.

Pfendler set a speed record for rowing solo from California to Hawaii, completing the journey in 43 days, 17 hours, and 55 minutes. She became the first American woman and the youngest person to complete the journey solo. According to records maintained by Ocean Rowing Society International, Pfendler's time surpassed both the previous women's and men's records for the route. Upon arrival in Honolulu, she was greeted by supporters as she completed her journey in her 21-foot rowboat, Lily.

Pfendler documented her expedition through video diaries, sharing insights into the logistics of ocean rowing, survival techniques, and the physical and mental challenges encountered at sea. She addressed topics such as cooking, sun protection, clothing care, and water purification. Through her social media presence, Pfendler attracted a global audience interested in adventure sports, ocean rowing, and outdoor endurance challenges.

In addition to her athletic accomplishments, Pfendler used her expedition to raise funds and awareness for the Whale Foundation, a nonprofit supporting the mental, physical, and financial well-being of the Grand Canyon river guiding community. Her efforts have resulted in significant donations to the organization. Pfendler's work in adventure sports and outdoor leadership continues to inspire individuals to pursue challenging goals and engage with environmental and community causes.