Signing of sponsorship contract

Renate and Mark Jongedijk, director of Slaapschepen, have signed the sponsorship contract. As the main sponsor, Slaapschepen will provide, among other things, the special ocean rowing boat. Renate has now started an intensive training program. In December 2026, the World’s Toughest Row will start from La Gomera in the Canary Islands. Renate will then row 4,800 km solo to Antigua. She wants to complete this grueling journey in a maximum of two months.

The website mvdwfoundation.nl/fundraisers/renate-de-backere provides more information about the research Renate is supporting and offers the opportunity to donate. Details about the preparations and the crossing can be followed via renatesolo.com.