July 21, 2025

Chattanooga Veteran Completes 2,800-Mile Rowing Challenge

News Summary

Jere Hartman, a retired Army Ranger from Chattanooga, has successfully completed a 2,800-mile rowing expedition across the Pacific Ocean. The journey took 35 days and involved extreme conditions, testing the team’s endurance. Despite finishing third, they broke a world record and raised awareness for veteran mental health. Hartman, who has faced significant personal challenges, is committed to advocating for veterans and plans to undertake another rowing challenge in 2027.

Chattanooga: Retired Army Ranger Completes 2,800-Mile Rowing Challenge

Jere Hartman, a 49-year-old retired Army Ranger and fitness instructor from Chattanooga, has successfully completed a grueling 2,800-mile rowing journey across the Pacific Ocean from Monterey, California, to Hanalei, Kauai, Hawaii. The epic expedition, which lasted for 35 days, 6 hours, and 59 minutes, was undertaken by the Range-Oar Row team—a group of five retired military men that tackled this notorious challenge together.

The rowing race, widely referred to as the World’s Toughest Rowing Race, subjected participants to extreme and unpredictable conditions that included towering 40-foot waves, severe fatigue, and physical discomfort. The team rowed in two-hour shifts around the clock throughout the month-long journey, facing an array of challenges that tested both their physical and mental endurance.

Hartman reported facing numerous physical difficulties during the race, such as sore and nearly frozen hands, as well as moments of mental fog that complicated the arduous task of rowing. To fuel their bodies, the team consumed an extensive daily intake of calories, with a diet primarily consisting of quickly accessible foods, such as candy bars and nuts, to sustain their energy levels.

Despite finishing third overall, the Range-Oar Row team achieved a remarkable feat by breaking a previous world record. They were narrowly edged out of second place by a younger team, while a lighter four-man boat finished first several days ahead of them. Hartman’s determination to continue the fight against mental health struggles among veterans deeply informed his motivation for participating in this challenging endeavor.

Veteran Advocacy and Mental Health Awareness

As a veteran who has twice deployed during the Iraq War and lost eight military associates to suicide, Hartman emphasizes the importance of mental health support for veterans. He described the rowing journey as not just a physical challenge but also a therapeutic experience that shed light on the struggles faced by many veterans. The challenges faced on the ocean mirrored the mental hardships that many encounter in civilian life, providing an opportunity for awareness and dialogue about these issues.

During the race, Hartman experienced a tooth infection and a fever that forced him to take a 24-hour rest. Nevertheless, amidst the physical trials, he also enjoyed moments of euphoria and inspiration, taking time to appreciate small details like sunsets during the journey.

Future Endeavors

Following his triumphant return home, Hartman is eager to share his experiences with fellow veterans and has been receiving messages of gratitude from those who resonate with his journey. He is set to participate in another rowing race scheduled for 2027, which will cross the Atlantic Ocean from Spain to Antigua. This upcoming challenge underscores his commitment to raising awareness for veteran mental health and continuing to push personal limits.

Hartman invites interested individuals to connect with him on social media, specifically on Instagram at jere_hartman297, to engage further on these important topics and share the message of support for veterans.

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Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER

The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.

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