More people have summited Everest than completed the 3,000 mile crossing of the Atlantic ocean in a rowing boat. Following the first recorded crossing in 1896, it is a venture that has inspired an unparalleled test of physical and mental endurance amongst those who dare to attempt it.
1996 saw the launch of the Atlantic Challenge, a race from La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Antigua in the Caribbean that has since grown to be the premier event in ocean rowing. To this day, it is considered by many to be the ultimate test of strength.
In December 2018, Old Stoic, Paul Heerema (Grenville 10) will embark on this unsupported expedition with three friends, as a member of The Nauti Buoys rowing team. Having chosen to support a charity that provides education to some of the world’s most disadvantaged children in Ghana, Guatemala, Laos and Nicaragua, the Buoys have set themselves an ambitious fundraising target of £300,000.
Paul works as a naval architect and is a keen sailor. Rowing however, is not his native sport! None of the Buoys are what would be described as ‘experienced rowers’, thus heightening the difficulty of the challenge at hand. They are all, however, endurance enthusiasts and have trained relentlessly in their preparation for the challenge ahead. Even with ample training, help is needed.
Paul and The Nauti Buoys are currently seeking corporate and individual sponsorship to help towards the cost of their Atlantic campaign. This will ensure the team reaches the start line equipped and ready for their expedition, whilst enabling them to dedicate more time to charitable fundraising. If you or anyone you know may be in a position to help, then please contact the team directly at TheNautiBuoysRC@gmail.com to receive a prospective partnership pack.
To follow Paul and the The Nauti Buoys on their journey to the start line and beyond, they can be found across social media at @TheNautiBuoys, as well as online at www.thenautibuoys.com