Parkinsons Atlantic Rowing Challenge requires support

Matthew and Chris Cleghorn intend to launch their Parkinson’s Atlantic Rowing Challenge in January 2011, setting off from La Gomera in the Canary Islands in a 23 foot rowboat and arriving at English Harbour in Antigua 41 days (or less) later. If they can complete the 2,935 mile (minimum) crossing in that time they will beat the record for men’s pairs and hopefully raise at least £50,000 for the Parkinson Disease Society. A member of their family suffers from the disease.

The brothers both joined the Royal Marines at 17 and, following tours of duty in places such as Iraq, Afghanistan and other world trouble spots, both finished their service as boat coxswains. Matthew and Chris then became coxswain and Commander respectively of search and rescue boats in the North Sea. Matthew is now a Marine Security Advisor for Chevron and Chris is a Ship’s Safety Officer.

Brought up in a commercial fishing family, they are convinced that the parallel challenges they have encountered in life and their close friendship will see them through whatever the Atlantic Ocean can throw at them. Meticulous preparation of the boat and through safety training in anticipation of any eventuality are seen by them as key to a successful crossing.

The biggest obstacle currently facing them is raising funds for their challenge. Their boat is currently under build at Rossiter Yachts of Christchurch in Dorset and has exhausted their funds. It will still require fitting out and equipping with GPS, VHF radio, radar reflector, etc. The brothers are hoping to find companies or private individuals who could sponsor their challenge by donating money or equipment.

Matthew and Chris Cleghorn need to raise about £50,000 to undertake the challenge and a further £50,000 in clear funds to donate to the Parkinson’s Disease Society. Anyone wishing to help can email: rowtheatlantic@yahoo.co.uk or visit www.parkinsonsoceanchallenge.co.uk.