Courser Racing: Inspiring Veterans and First Responders to “Row Their Ocean”

Completing a Special Operations mission requires physical skill, discipline, and grit that few can understand. Elite Special Ops members train rigorously for stealth missions that often seem impossible. However, these world-class warriors are in a class by themselves.

After exiting the military, though, Special Ops members face the same challenges as other service partners. Former law enforcement and firefighters navigate similar obstacles. Adapting to civilian life and finding gainful employment are often difficult.

Ex-military and former first responders with medical concerns and/or PTSD have an even steeper road. Some engage in self-destructive behaviors, and far too many have turned to suicide. Clearly, these men and women who put their lives on the line deserve better.

?

Courser Racing Changes the Dynamic

In 2023, a Charleston-based 501(c)(3) charitable organization delivered a game-changing solution. Four former Special Operators launched Courser Racing , a non-profit designed to help veterans and first responders transition to the civilian workforce. Anchored by ocean rowing expeditions, Courser Racing envisions an experience that “mirrors the rigors of service required of Special Operations Veterans, Law Enforcement, and Firefighter/EMS personnel.”

Blake Sufferling and Peter Glaeser, MBA , MBA are Courser Racing’s co-founders. Chris Farrington and Jamie “JT” Mullinax are on the Founding Team. Blake Sufferling describes Courser Racing’s “Aha!” moment. “Courser Racing was founded when Peter Glaeser, MBA and his wife, Kristi, saw ocean-rowing boats arriving into Antigua after [the vessels] had crossed the Atlantic Ocean.

“At the finish line of the Atlantic race, Pete began to envision a non-profit that challenged veterans to ‘row their ocean’ while encouraging teamwork, community, and grit…Ocean Rowing is accessible, challenging, and requires planning, trust, and risk mitigation to accomplish something great,” Blake Sufferling emphasized.

The Foundation: Cohesive Cohorts

Courser Racing will create 6-12 month “cohorts” involving four-man teams. Each team’s maritime training program takes place aboard a Charleston-based Rannoch R45 ocean rowing craft. Next, each team will complete a charity-linked ocean “Expedition.” Teams can access a business mentor/job placement network and acquire business experience via Courser Racing’s activities.

The Pinnacle: The World’s Toughest Row 2025

As Courser Racing ’s first cohort, the Founding Team will participate in The World’s Toughest Row ─ Pacific. Launching in June 2025, this 2,800-mile, mid-Pacific course runs from Monterey, California to Kauai, Hawaii. Global teams must dig deep to find the physical and mental stamina that drives them to the finish line.

Courser Racing’s Unstoppable Community

Today, the Courser Racing Community’s momentum continues to accelerate. The Founding Team holds monthly meetups with veterans and first responders, building a community that helps each other rise. Courser Racing seeks cohorts for upcoming Atlantic/Pacific races and 3-to-10-day Expeditions.

Spotlight on Courser Racing’s Sponsors

Naturally, the Courser Racing Community would be becalmed without its sponsorship partners. These remarkable organizations are dedicated to “empowering veterans and first responders for life's next mission.”

Courser Racing’s biggest supporters include BGI LLC, Freefly Apparel, Hobie Sunglasses, Hill People Gear, and TN-based Intercept Roofing. New sponsors (including corporate and title sponsors) are invited to jump aboard. Contact Courser Racing at [email protected] or [email protected] .

Copywriting Services by Barbara Hazelden

What to increase your Network and Net Worth with a Pack of other Heart-Centered, High Level Professionals? Then join on of our group calls, the registration link is below!

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYtduGurToqHdMRgxOel3B0ItmZOiU7dxkz