Transitioning throughout a Transatlantic Solo Row: A Case of a Former Special Air Service Soldier

Kaiseler, Mariana ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7931-4584 (2024) Transitioning throughout a Transatlantic Solo Row: A Case of a Former Special Air Service Soldier. Journal of Sport Psychology in Action. ISSN 2152-0712 (In Press)

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Abstract

This paper describes the psychological support given to the first individual to complete a solo transatlantic row of 3,450 nautical miles from New York in the United States of America to the Isles of Scilly in the United Kingdom, relying only on his navigation skills. The client (IR) was a 55-year-old British male former Special Air Service soldier. The intervention was informed by diversified developmental theoretical perspectives, context-driven and person-centered approaches complemented by acceptance commitment therapy and self-determination theory. Psychological support was provided across three phases and focused on helping the client to build effective personal and social resources, increase his cognitive and emotional competence, and plan meaningful social support networks to facilitate a successful adaptation. Autonomy was encouraged by cultivating present-moment attention, fostering self-reflection, and planning for coping with potential crisis scenarios. Lessons learned and the relevance of the meta-model of adaptation in sport are discussed, providing recommendations for practitioners supporting individuals in adapting to high-risk adventures.