Saudi Arabia – Move over, Olympians! There’s a new record-breaker in town, and her name is Hatoon Al Fassi.
Al Fassi, a 32-year-old woman from Saudi Arabia, has set a new world record for rowing in open water, proving that Saudi women can do more than just wear abayas and perform housekeeping duties.
We spoke with Al Fassi briefly over the phone (because, let’s be real, who has time for face-to-face interviews these days?), and she told us that she was inspired to take on the challenge after realizing that she was sick and tired of watching men break all the records.
“I mean, come on. Just because they have bigger muscles and better equipment doesn’t mean they’re the only ones who can be great at sports,” Al Fassi said indignantly.
And so, armed with nothing but her oars and an unshakeable determination, Al Fassi embarked on her journey to set a new world record.
As she rowed through the open waters, battling against the wind, waves, and her own exhaustion, Al Fassi couldn’t help but reflect on the absurdity of it all.
“I’m out here pushing my limits and breaking barriers, and yet there are still people who think I shouldn’t be allowed to drive or travel without a male guardian. It’s ridiculous,” Al Fassi exclaimed.
After what felt like an eternity (but was actually only a few hours), Al Fassi finally crossed the finish line, beating the previous world record by a whopping three minutes.
The achievement was met with widespread praise and admiration from people all over the world, who applauded Al Fassi for her strength, bravery, and sheer badassery.
But you know who wasn’t impressed? The Saudi government, that’s who.
According to sources close to the situation (who we’re not naming because, let’s face it, we’re too lazy to verify their credibility), Saudi authorities initially refused to acknowledge Al Fassi’s world record, claiming that it was “improper” for a woman to engage in such physical activity without a male chaperone.
However, after facing backlash and criticism from the international community, Saudi officials begrudgingly recognized Al Fassi’s achievement, releasing a statement that read: “We applaud Hatoon Al Fassi for her hard work and dedication, and we look forward to seeing more Saudi women achieve great things in sports and other areas. But just remember, ladies, you still need permission from your male guardians before you can leave the house.”
As for Al Fassi, she’s not letting the naysayers get her down. In fact, she’s already planning her next challenge: a solo trek to the North Pole.
“Because apparently, breaking the world record for rowing isn’t impressive enough,” Al Fassi quipped.
We wish Al Fassi all the best in her future endeavors, and we hope to see more women like her smashing stereotypes and defying expectations in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
