TWO fundraisers, who are taking on an endurance challenge dubbed the ‘world’s toughest row’, are encouraging Islanders to take part in a month-long initiative to clock up their own miles.
Earlier this month, Peter Wright and Steve Hayes started the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge to raise money for Durrell and Macmillan, rowing over 3,000 miles unaided across the Atlantic Ocean from the Canary Islands to Antigua. Despite having no previous rowing experience, the pair will be out at sea for up to two months.
They will be rowing consistently – two hours on, two hours off, 24 hours a day – until they reach their destination. During the race, rowers lose an average of 15kg of body mass, row 1.5 million oar strokes and may face waves up to 30 feet high.
And while the pair are braving the high seas, they are inviting those back home to join them in their fundraising efforts by taking part in the Atlantic Accumulator. This is a virtual event which invites individuals to compete against each other, wherever they are in the world, to log the most miles. Athletes of any ability can sign up to run, walk, cycle or row as far as possible in January. Prizes will be awarded to participants accumulating the furthest distance during the challenge, as well as to those who raise the most money.
Mr Wright said: ‘Knowing that we are raising as much as possible for these incredible charities will be what spurs us on through the tough times, when exhaustion, isolation and physical discomfort become our day-to-day reality.
‘We are really hoping to have at least 300 people sign up to the Atlantic Accumulator, which is a fantastic challenge to take on in January when everyone is inspired to make positive lifestyle changes.’
The challenge starts on 1 January and runs until 31 January. Islanders can sign up for the event at race-nation.co.uk/register/dragonfish-row/fundraiser.
