Rowers in slide to record books

May 2 2008 by Paul Mannion, Chester Chronicle

AN OARSOME 24-hour national rowing record has been made official.

Junior rowers of Royal Chester Rowing Club travelled a total distance of 345,884 metres, more than 200 miles, in a single 24-hour stint using indoor rowing machines.

Junior club captain Callum McGuicken, 15, of Christleton High School, who organised the event, said: “I came up with the idea and we thought it would be a great fundraiser. It turned into quite a big event.

“Everyone on the committee researched it and we found out there was no record for U16s. We were all really tired but managed to get through it. We are thinking of making it an annual event and then try to beat this year’s record.”

The 24 12-16-year-olds raised about £3,000 for new equipment at the 150-year-old rowing club as well as setting a UK record for their age group.

Chairman Michal Palamarczuk said: “We are extremely proud of the juniors. For them to do what they did and keep going is a fantastic achievement. I would like to thank all the support from the parents and other club members who cheered them on.

“The have raised a fantastic amount of money that is always needed for new equipment and repairs.”

The rowers started their record attempt on March 28, at noon and continued until noon on March 29 inside a vacant store in The Mall, Chester.