Oar-some charity challenge

May 2 2008 by David Norbury, Chester Chronicle

Oar-some charity challenge

CHARITY fundraisers heading for the start of the world famous Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race course had a send off from an admiral.

The veterans, from the Royal Chester Rowing Club, are hoping to raise at least £15,000 for the NeuroMuscular Centre (NMC) in Winsford, the club’s own charitable trust fund and other good causes.

The coxed eight, whose ages range from 49 to 67, have set themselves the target of rowing from the barely navigable upper reaches of the Thames at Lechlade to Putney, a total distance of 135 miles, in just three days.

The crew will also face the challenge of negotiating 45 locks in their 60ft boat which, with oars extended, is wider than a typical lock, and shooting a number of bridges for which they will also have to ship their oars.

“It’s all a matter of balance” said one optimistic oarsman, hoping to avoid a ducking in the river.

The University of Chester has been helping the crew, average age 58, with nutritional and training advice.

On hand to launch the venture was Lord Mayor Cllr Jim Latham as Admiral of the Dee, transatlantic rower and former club ladies captain Rachel Smith and Neuro- Muscular Centre president TV personality Matthew Kelly.

The row starts on Sunday, May 18.

Further information, including details of how to make a donation, is available on the club’s website at www.rcrc.org.uk