A team of 9 female rowers from Bournemouth University have successfully broken the world record for the longest continual row by a small team.

The previous record, which was set in July 2014, stood at 36 hours 7 minutes 45 seconds. The BU students who embarked upon the challenge to raise funds for their club decided to target 48 hours. In the 2 day period, they covered nearly 600 000metres on the rowing machine, provisionally breaking the record by nearly 12 hours.

Senior Women's Captain Betty Glover, who was part of the team, said “It was great seeing the squad pull together. Without the amazing team work from our club we wouldn't have got through the 48 hours. It definitely wasn't easy but it was a great experience and we are thankful to everyone who donated!”

The club, which sits under the Students' Union at Bournemouth University, has over 50 active members training 7 days a week, often twice a day. They compete regularly at National level events throughout the country including the renowned Henley Women's and Henley Royal Regattas.

Emma Burton, Treasurer of the club, explained "Given the amount that we compete and the costs involved, including travel and accommodation, it becomes a very expensive sport to be part of and that is why we do fundraising events such as this."

During the Easter break, the whole club will be attending a week-long intensive training camp where the crews will prepare for the summer regattas. The summer racing will begin with the British Universities Championships which will take place in Nottingham over the May bank holiday weekend and is attended by Universities from across the country.

It is still possible to donate towards the club's target by visiting their fundraising page at: https://bubc.everydayhero.com/uk/bubc-women-concept-erg-record. The club are also always looking out for potential sponsors and any individuals or companies interested should contact the club via email at sububoatclub@bournemouth.ac.uk.