Friends to row 3,000 miles in Talisker Atlantic Rowing Race for charity

A GROUP of four friends are attempting to row 3,000 miles across the Atlantic in a bid to win the Talisker Atlantic Rowing Race and raise money for charity.

The event, billed as the toughest rowing race in the world, begins in the Canary Islands and ends in Antigua.

If all goes well, it is likely to take between 35 and 40 days to complete with the team alternating between two-hour spells of rowing and rest 24 hours a day.

Lymington’s Justin Houlton and his friends Mark Golton, Dan Wakerley and Ruari Hadlington decided to embark on the perilous journey after Ruari’s friend, Stef, died of motor neurone disease (MND) in 2014.

The money raised will go towards supporting the My Name’s Doddie Foundation. Former Scotland rugby international Doddie Weir set up the charity after he was diagnosed with MND to support fellow sufferers. It aims to help sufferers live full lives and fund research into the causes and a potential cure.

They are also supporting Pursuing Independent Paths, a London-based charity which helps adults with learning disabilities. At their care centre, PiP provides a fun, sociable environment where students can learn life skills like managing their money or using public transport.

Justin said: “We are really excited to undertake this challenge that has been years in the making. We have chosen two charities that we are hugely passionate about and are very thankful for all the support so far.

The group will be inviting sponsors, friends, family and local residents to see the boat and meet the crew at Yacht Haven in Lymington tomorrow (Sunday).

He added: “The interest around Lymington has been a real highlight.”

For more information or to donate, visit onshouldersofgiants.net