Posted on 6th Dec
Transatlantic charity rowers George Nelson and Russ Davis have had a tough 24 hours in the first week of their remarkable bid to row across the ocean in a small boat – unsupported, reports Josh Flowers.
The duo – Team Oar Blimey – had to deploy the parachute anchor on their Innovation Nottinghamshire Memory boat because high wind speeds in a storm were pushing them back in the direction of Portugal. The storm was reaching speeds of 23-28 knots and, ideally, the fundraisers can’t row into a wind that is stronger than eight knots.
George and Russ caught up with sleep during that time and said they were happy after also seeing two big tankers pass by just half a mile away.
The rowers, who want to raise £250,000 for two dementia charities, reported that they have enjoyed finding personal notes packed in their food.
George’s wife, Linda, said she has found the experience a whirlwind so far. She was thankful to hear from the rowers just after midnight this morning and that rowing has resumed.
Mansfield brothers-in-law George and Russ set off on a three-month adventure of a lifetime on 1st December, aiming to row unsupported across the Atlantic Ocean and raise £250,000 for two dementia charities. They will each row for two hours at a time and then rest in between.
The 3,500-mile challenge began in front of a small group of supporters in Portugal and the duo want to reach Sint Maarten in the Caribbean.
Team Oar Blimey are rowing in a Rannoch Adventure R20, which is just 6.5m long and 1.2m wide, in their bid to help Our Dementia Choir with Vicky McClure and Ladybrook Enterprises.
The rowers can be tracked at www.oarblimey.co.uk or download the YB Races app and add their race, “Oar Blimey Atlantic Ocean Challenge 2023”.
To find out more about the rowing challenge or to help support the cause, visit https://oarblimey.co.uk where you can make a donation or find them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/oarblimey
