‘Oarsome’ challenge for Exeter alumni

Michael Paul (Exercise and Sports Science 2006) and Ian Roberts (Exercise and Sports Science 2007; International Business Management 2008) have teamed up with Kieran Roche (University of Bath) to undertake the 48 hour row across two of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. They will be rowing two at a time, with each of the team rowing a two hour shift followed by a one hour rest period.

The team are aiming to start their adventure during the week of September 5, leaving from Hamble near Southampton and finishing in Cherbourg two days later.

They are being sponsored by another Exeter alumna, Emily Webb (Business Management 2010) who has already achieved international acclaim for designing a completely new product called the ‘Oarsome Potential Grip’. Emily’s product is an ergonomic grip, originally designed for preventing rowers suffering from blisters and sores but which also has countless other uses. It was featured on Dragons’ Den and has since achieved a worldwide patent.

Commenting on the challenge ahead Michael Paul commented ‘The row will require determination, the resilience to combat difficult tides and, most of all, physical endurance. It will be exceptionally tough but at least we won’t have to worry about blisters on our hands!’

Emily added ‘it has been a great pleasure for my company, Oarsome Potential Ltd, to be able to sponsor the boys on their charitable rowing adventure. The two charities they have chosen to support do wonderful work and have a high demand for their services. I really hope the team achieves its very stretching £10,000 target.’

To find out more about the challenge or make a donation, visit the team’s Just Giving website or follow them on twitter: @c2crossing.