The countdown begins ….

So we are finally in the year of the row and we are both exited and nervous in equal measures.

To help us prepare for this years challenge we flew out to La Gomera to spend a few days with the rowers taking part in the 2024 Challenge as they made the final adjustments to their boats and kit before they departed. Physically seeing the process, including pre - race inspections was invaluable and we took a lengthy “To Do” list as part of our preparation. We  also had the opportunity to catch up Claudia and Ernst from @alpinerowers who we did our mandatory training courses with.

BACK DOWN SOUTH - Homeward Bound

Our boat was born and bred Essex and after driving through the vast majority of it with her on the trailer, we took her back in January for some running repairs, technical additions and general TLC while she is out of the water for the winter. Boat builders Rannoch Adventures in Burnham-on-Crouch welcomed her with open arms as a loving mother would do, after which she’ll be be receiving further visual enhancements which will include a special “wrap” and additional sponsors and partners names and logos attended to by our friends at Fordesigns. Both companies couldn’t have been more supportive and we look forward to continue to work with them over the coming year.

Richard with Jon and Kyle of Fordesigns

"Fail to prepare - prepare to fail"

We have learnt that there are many areas which require considerable commitment when ‘rowing an ocean’. One of the key aspects of our preparation is ‘strength and conditioning’ training. We have been working with Gus Barton @ocean ready since April last year (and it feels a lot, lot longer than that!) GB sets us weekly programmes which are designed to work on and increase our flexibility, strength and stamina. A typical week involves four sessions on the Concept 2 rowing machine and two gym based sessions of strength and conditioning. We have just completed our 200th session and we are currently building up to sessions in March involving two hours rowing - ten minutes rest - two further hours rowing 🚣‍♂️…..and on it goes!

Another area of significant work this year is on our mental endurance. We are working closely with Tommy Hanlon and Luke Horrocks of @matrixperformance. They are looking to help us harness our inner strength, develop cohesive team work and stay focused and motivated throughout out our Atlantic crossing. We’ll wait and see if we are on still on speaking terms when we row into Nelson’s Dockyard!

GB showing how it should be done!

This weeks homework!

2024 - Race Winners!

The winners of this year's race representing The Netherlands, Team Row4Cancer,

@teamrow4cancer. They crossed the finish line in Antigua in 37 days, 13 hours, 20 mins. Massive congratulations to Leon, Tom, Maarten and Mark. The team's skipper, Mark Slats, has competed 3 times in the race and this was his 2nd time as part of a winning crew!!

David and Richard 🌊 🚣🏌️‍♂️