A team of Royal Marines is to attempt to row around Britain in September in order to raise money for the Chris Jones Riders' Fund.
The non-stop sponsored static row will cover a distance of 2.4 million metres (that's 1,492 miles). The team will use two Concept II rowing machines, each taking six men, and it's anticipated that it will take them between four and five days to complete this 'rowathon'.
Team leader Colour Sergeant Tony Creaney said: "The distance is equivalent to travelling by road to every Royal Marines establishment in the UK, although the dedicated rowers will never leave the Fleet Headquarters in Portsmouth.
"The event aims to raise money for the Royal Navy and Royal Marines Children's Fund, and the Chris Jones Riders' Fund."
The Chris Jones Riders Fund is close to the heart of Csgt Creaney. He joined the Royal Marines in 1993 and in late 2004, on what was to be his last motorcycle race, he suffered a near-fatal accident.
The crash at Donington Park left him with three breaks to his back, a fractured pelvis, broken ribs and sever bruising. It was after many months of medical care and expert treatment that Tony was able to walk again.
Csgt Creaney made a full recovery and has returned to work with the Royal Marines Naval Personnel Team in Portsmouth. He recognises that this is, in no small part, due to the excellent medical facilities available at the circuit where his accident happened. Unfortunately, not all circuits can boast such a standard and the Chris Jones Riders' Fund is working hard to improve this, for all riders and their families.
To sponsor the row, click here
To learn more about the row, click here
