A Grand Canyon river rafting guide has achieved a groundbreaking accomplishment in ocean rowing. Kelsey Pfendler completed her solo journey across the mid-Pacific, becoming the first American woman to row from California to Hawaii alone. Her arrival in Honolulu was met with cheers from hundreds of supporters on a Friday night.

Pfendler embarked on her journey in May, departing from Monterey, California. Her goal was to become not only the first American woman but also the youngest and fastest woman to row the 2,400-mile stretch solo. Social media played a significant role in her venture, as hundreds of thousands followed her progress through her video updates from the vast ocean.

Pfendler set new records in ocean rowing, surpassing both women’s and men’s previous speed records. According to the Ocean Rowing Society International, she completed the journey in just under 44 days. This exceeded the previous female record of 86 days and the male record of 52 days. The society records achievements for Guinness World Records. Officials from the organization did not immediately respond to a request for comment regarding Pfendler’s completion.

In her video diaries, Pfendler shared the challenges of her journey. From dealing with blistered hands to managing sleep in difficult conditions, her experiences highlighted the physical and mental struggles she faced. She discussed practical aspects of her voyage, including cooking, sun protection, and water purification. Her videos were a mix of emotional reflections and humorous observations, such as her tan line from wearing a hat.

Pfendler, with a background as a professional raft guide, has extensive experience leading trips on the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Her passion for adventure is evident in her words: “I just love boats in the middle of nowhere,” she stated in one of her videos.

Local news reports mentioned that Pfendler was expected to speak to the media eventually. An interview request sent to her team was not immediately returned.

As she approached Oahu, Pfendler reflected on what her achievement could mean for others. She expressed her hope that her journey might inspire others to feel empowered and face their own challenges. “Trying to find your own big, hard, scary thing,” she encouraged, noting that starting is as important as completing such an endeavor.