A row-bust family of fundraisers are embarking on an oar-inspiring charity challenge.
The 100-mile crew-sade is the brainchild of Zoe Winchester, who is organising the event as part of her studies at Hills Road Sixth Form College, in Cambridge.
Together with parents Mark and Emma, brother Harry, 21, and sister Beth, 19, the family will be using a rowing machine to complete the distance non-stop and expect it to take around 16 hours.
They will be taking it in turns to row and are raising funds for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
“I’m doing this as part of my Sixth Form Extended Project Qualification (EPQ),” said Zoe, 16.
“I had the choice of either writing a dissertation, using software to develop an artifact or organising an event. I liked the last one and my first thought was some kind of running challenge.
“However, it made sense to use the rowing machine we have here at home and it’s lovely – and fun – to be doing it together as a family. Between the five of us, we’ll be rowing for three or four hours each.
“I’m excited and looking forward to it, although I’m sure a few nerves will kick in nearer the time because it’s going to be a massive challenge.”
To gain the qualification, worth half an A Level, Zoe has to film parts of the rowathon and write a 1,000-word essay.
The family, who live in Swaffham Bulbeck, between Cambridge and Newmarket, plan to get underway at 6am on Saturday, 15th April. They hope to raise as much as possible for EACH.
“Dad’s company have been involved in fundraising before so it was the obvious choice of charity to support,” added Zoe.
“We were also lucky enough to be shown around Milton. We were shown all the different areas of the hospice, including the sensory room and hydro pool.
“It brought it home to me and having an idea of how the money will be spent will definitely spur us on.”
Mark is a regional director for Cambridge-based Rathbone Investment Management. His business has previously supported EACH. He previously took on another rowing challenge and has completed the Cambridge Half-Marathon twice.
Mark said: “I bought our rowing machine during the pandemic and it’s sat upstairs gathering dust ever since. It’ll be nice to put it to good use!
“In all seriousness, it’s such an incredible cause and we’re all pleased and proud to be involved, supporting EACH but also Zoe. None of us are rowers so it’s going to be hard work, physically and mentally.
“However, if and when we’re tired and struggling, we’ll just think about our hospice visit. That’ll remind us why we’re taking on the challenge.”
The Winchester family were shown around Milton by EACH Corporate Fundraiser Hannah Forbester.
To sponsor them, head here.