Together, Dawn, John, Paul, and Mat form an extraordinary team—four individuals whose lives have been shaped by service, adventure, resilience, and a commitment to making a difference. Each brings unique strengths to the expedition: world-class ocean-rowing expertise, leadership, determination, experience under pressure, and an unwavering belief in the power of purpose.

What unites them is more than a shared challenge. It is a deep respect for one another, a passion for pushing beyond perceived limits, and a commitment to supporting the life-changing mission of NextStep Fitness.

Their collective strength lies in the combination of experience, endurance, and teamwork. Between them, they have crossed oceans, served their communities and country, overcome personal adversity, and embraced challenges that few would ever attempt.

When the Pacific delivers its toughest moments—towering swells, relentless weather, and physical exhaustion—it will be their trust in each other and belief in the mission that keeps them moving forward. Every stroke will represent hope, perseverance, and the opportunity to create meaningful change for those they serve.

United by a cause far greater than themselves, they are not simply rowing across an ocean. They are demonstrating what can be achieved when courage, teamwork, and purpose come together. Through grit, determination, and heart, they hope to inspire others to pursue their own extraordinary challenges and prove that no obstacle is too great when faced together.

This is more than an ocean crossing. It is a journey of human potential, resilience, and the belief that every person deserves the opportunity to live a fuller, stronger, and more independent life.

Dawn Smith, a world-record-holding ocean rower, Yachtmaster Examiner, and former police marine skipper, is driven by adventure, resilience, and a passion for helping others achieve extraordinary goals.

After more than 20 years working professionally on the water, Dawn took early retirement from policing to pursue her dream of rowing oceans and founded Aurora Sea School, where she trains and mentors aspiring ocean rowers and adventurers. With over 15,000 nautical miles rowed, six ocean crossings, and multiple world records to her name, she is one of the most experienced ocean rowers in the world.

Now, alongside three teammates, she is preparing for her seventh ocean crossing as she rows 2,800 miles across the Pacific to raise millions for NextStep Fitness, proving that age is no barrier to achievement and inspiring others—especially women—to take on challenges they once thought impossible.

Paul Lore, a Marine Corps veteran, retired air traffic controller, and experienced ocean rower, is driven by service, adventure, and a lifelong connection to the sea.

Born in Brooklyn and raised on Long Island, Paul developed a deep love for the ocean at an early age, a passion that led him to serve eight years in the United States Marine Corps before spending more than three decades with the Federal Aviation Administration. Today, he remains active in his community, dedicating his time to volunteering, conservation efforts, and life on the water.

Having successfully rowed both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, Paul brings invaluable experience, resilience, and leadership to the team. Now, alongside three teammates, he is preparing to row 2,800 miles across the Pacific to raise millions for NextStep Fitness, using his time and experience to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Mat Steinlin, an entrepreneur, adventurer, and veteran ocean rower, is driven by resilience, purpose, and a desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

Born and raised in Switzerland before making Florida his home, Mat has always embraced challenges that push him beyond his comfort zone. From endurance events and aviation pursuits to crossing the Atlantic Ocean as part of Team Row4Hope, he believes that growth comes from taking on ambitious goals and persevering through adversity. His adventurous spirit and determination have defined both his personal and professional journey.

Now, alongside three teammates, he is preparing to row 2,800 miles across the Pacific to raise millions for NextStep Fitness, proving that extraordinary achievements are possible when purpose, teamwork, and perseverance come together in service of a greater cause.

John “Falcon Claw” Elston, a bestselling author, athlete, and global adventurer, has lived on five continents, competed in marathons, triathlons, and Ironman races, and even placed 4th at the 2023 U.S. Open Pickleball.

A former college football player and lifelong competitor, his training blends relentless physical work with cold plunges, saunas, and disciplined breathwork.

Motivated by his belief in doing hard things and controlling his own reality, John is embracing this Pacific row as the ultimate test of endurance, purpose, and legacy.