Ardingly rowers take to the reservoir for sponsored row

On Saturday 16 August at 5.30am as the sun rose and the moon set, 63 rowers in 27 boats from Ardingly Rowing Club took to the Reservoir for their Sunrise Sponsored Row.
By Di Binley
Published 18th Aug 2014, 12:58 BST
Ardingly Rowing ClubArdingly Rowing Club
Ardingly Rowing Club

This is the second year that the Club has pulled together to raise funds for Club equipment and a local charity. For 2014, Georgia Fuller from the Junior Women’s squad nominated Rockinghorse at Brighton’s Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital.

Rockinghorse raise money for life-saving and cutting-edge medical equipment, while ensuring children are treated in an environment better suited to their needs. The Club funds will be used to buy sculling blades (oars) for their Junior members.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

So far Ardingly rowers have raised £3700 at this year’s row - donations are still coming in (and are welcomed).

Ardingly Rowing Club members from all sections of the Club took part including Alison Mowbray from the 2004 Olympic Silver Medal Quad, and Fran Rawlins who won Gold in the Women’s Lightweight Single Scull at last weekend’s Commonwealth Regatta in Glasgow. Not all Club members aspire to international glory – some row simply for fitness, friendship and fun – as seen in the fancy dress on the day!

After a Club breakfast at Ardingly Activity Centre, Annamarie Phelps, Chairman of British Rowing, named three Club boats to honour Club Members Derek Riches, Robert Taylor and David Law. Just 10 years ago the Club could only seat 10 rowers per session, this year there are seats for 75! The Club will celebrate its 20th anniversary in 2015. Do follow their success on Facebook and Twitter and at www.ardinglyrowingclub.co.uk