Lower Sixth Form senior rowers completed an epic charity challenge over the weekend and raised funds for the Down’s Syndrome Association.
Joshua (L) and Abbey (N) were the driving force behind this year’s initiative, along with the support of their crew mates. The challenge was for the team to collectively indoor row the length of the River Thames in a continuous 24 hours, a distance of 346 km.
Despite the area reserved for sleeping, there was not much opportunity for rest. Fortified by a banquet of energy boosting snacks, the crew took turns to row in ten-minute shifts and helped each other to stay energised and motivated throughout the night.
British Rowing athlete and coach, Old Oundelian James Robson (Ldr 2012) joined them on a video call during the row to support them. In 2001, he broke the British record for the half marathon on the Concept 2 indoor rower.
During the final ten-minute shift of the 24-hour marathon, they reached their goal and rowed on to finish at 348.2 km. Guest rowers William and Joseph met the crew at the end and helped to push them over the finish line.
Including the addition of Gift Aid, the pupils raised £5421, smashing their target by over 150%.
With contributions from Henry (L).
