THE WORCESTER buoys have completed their incredible charity quest to row the Atlantic Ocean in memory of a much-loved neighbour.
George Farmiloe and Matt Bladen completed their gruelling 40-day, 3,000-mile unsupported row across the Atlantic Ocean last night.
The 26-year-olds, who met at school in Worcester, have raised over £77,000 for Acorns Children’s Hospice.
Matt’s next-door neighbour Jack Dyer, who sadly passed away in November 2020 aged just 16, was given fantastic care by Acorns throughout his life.
The duo rowed relentlessly during alternating two-hour shifts since setting off last month.
The trek has seen the buoys face broken oar gates, damaged safety equipment, mouldy chocolate bars, seasickness and some of the worst conditions the challenge has ever seen.
The Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge is organised by Atlantic Campaigns and each year 30 teams from across the world meet in La Gomera and begin their journey to Antigua.
The duo have been documenting their journey on social media.
A statement released on their Instagram page said: “The buoys have powered through, keeping positive and bringing the infectious energy they’re known for every step of the way.
“And, of course, with the lows come immense highs – they spotted pods of whales, dolphins and incredible bioluminescence in the water.
“The sunrises, sunsets and moonrises were also sights that you just don’t get to see anywhere else.
“But, what got them up in the middle of the night, to battle yet another shift of 7-metre waves, force 8 storms or 30-degree heat, was the knowledge that they were rowing for a fantastic cause – Acorns Children’s Hospice.”
Having completed their challenge, the buoys are now looking to hit their £100,000 fund-raising target.
Visit www.justgiving.com/team/worcesterbuoys to donate.
