Chris Howard, Lamin Deen, Emma Wolstenholme, Jason McKinlay and Sophie Harris are one of three teams taking part in the 2022 GB Row Challenge.
Billed as one the toughest rowing races in the world, the team will row continuously and unsupported, taking turns to row and rest. To be able to successfully circumnavigate Great Britain, they will need to understand the sea’s tidal flow, and row against changeable winds and fast-turning tides, making it a greater test of endurance and skill that trans-ocean rowing.
Their incredible challenge – which begins and ends at Tower Bridge in London – will support ground-breaking research to help transform the lives of patients at The Royal Marsden and around the world.
Skipper Chris said: “It’s going to be incredibly tough, but I’m up for the challenge. Most importantly, it’s a race with a purpose. We are determined to raise as much as possible for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity’s vital work to improve the lives of cancer patients around the world, while also raising awareness of the wonders of British waters and the need to protect them.”
As well as fundraising for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, the team will undertake a collection of marine biology data. GB Row Challenge is working with the University of Portsmouth to gather environmental samples and data for research into issues from marine biodiversity to microplastics in British waters.
Amy Mullins, Head of Community Fundraising at The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, said: “We are so grateful to Chris, Emma, Sophie, Lamin and Jason for taking on this epic feat of endurance in support of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, and we wish them the very best of luck. Their generous support will help to accelerate the translation of world-leading research into breakthroughs in the treatment and care of cancer patients, not only at The Royal Marsden, but worldwide.”
You can follow the team’s journey via their tracker and support their efforts by donating on their fundraising page.