Convex Group Limited and Swiss Re have set a new world record, becoming the fastest mixed-gender crew to row across the Pacific Ocean.
Aboard the Iron Ore vessel, two reinsurance leaders, Theresa (Tia) Patricios, head of investments at Convex, and Cameron Parker, head P&C structured solutions for Continental Europe and Africa at Swiss Re, became the first reinsurance team to row across the Pacific. They completed the voyage as part of an effort to raise money for mental health.
They completed the journey in just 34 days, 8 hours, and 22 minutes. Joining them on the voyage were Swiss Re chapter lead Stuart Thompson and iptiQ software engineer Andrei Celovschi (Celo), who braved the challenging conditions alongside their counterparts.
The voyage was part of the "World's Toughest Row," an arduous race that kicked off on June 12th in Monterey, Calif. Thirteen teams battled each other across 2,800 miles, aiming to be the first in their category to reach the island of Kauai, Hawaii.
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Amid the gruelling journey, the crossing witnessed a symbolic event – the signing of a Quota share Reinsurance Contract in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, approximately 1,300 nautical miles from the shore. Amidst the unpredictable seas, Parker and Patricios put pen to paper, fortifying the bond between Convex and Swiss Re.
“This has been an arduous but ultimately thrilling journey and I’m immensely proud of my fellow crew members,” Patricios said. “Completing this race is rewarding enough, but to have set a world record is just astounding.”
“My vision for this row from the start was to unite the reinsurance industry behind a project which provides a unique and fast track opportunity for personal growth and shines a light on one of the greatest risks facing our industry – mental health,” Parker said.
As the team continues its mission to raise awareness for mental health, they are working towards a goal of £100,000 (about $128,000) for Mind, an organization that supports mental health. To make a donation, click here.
Swiss Re recently announced the appointment of Ali Shahkarami as global head of P&C solutions. Last month, the company released its annual SONAR report on emerging risks.
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