Home / Sports / Rowers Brave Irish Sea for MND Cure
Rowers Brave Irish Sea for MND Cure
7 Mar
Summary
- Crew aims to raise millions for motor neurone disease research.
- They will row across the Irish Sea for about ten days.
- The challenge is inspired by rugby stars Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow.
The ROW4MND crew has launched the second phase of their significant fundraising effort to combat motor neurone disease (MND). Setting off from Pembrokeshire on Saturday, the team of four former Royal Marines and an entrepreneur will navigate the challenging Irish Sea, rowing continuously for approximately ten days until they reach the Western Isles of Scotland.
This expedition aims to surpass last year's achievement, which raised over £140,000. Inspired by rugby stars Doddie Weir and Rob Burrow, who succumbed to MND, the crew is determined to raise £57 million for MND research and treatment by 2028. They acknowledge the inherent unpredictability of such voyages, recalling challenges like Storm Floris and being mistaken for a migrant vessel during their previous row.
Co-founder Matt Parker expressed his eagerness for the upcoming leg, highlighting the favourable weather forecast for their departure. He reiterated the crew's unwavering commitment to finding a cure and improving future treatments for MND, promising to continue their efforts until the goal is achieved. The community of Dale has shown remarkable support, assisting with accommodation, parking, and provisions, making it a fitting launch location.
Mike Bates, another co-founder, emphasized the increased difficulty of this year's challenge due to colder, wetter, and darker conditions. He underscored the profound impact of MND, noting that one in 300 people are affected, making the disease relevant to nearly everyone in the UK. The crew's motivation stems from the daily suffering endured by those diagnosed with MND and their families, driving their mission to transform the future of the disease's treatment.
