A MAN from Purfleet in Thurrock is taking to the water in aid of vulnerable children by rowing the River Thames for the Ahoy Centre charity.
Christian Walker is among twenty-eight intrepid – and very inexperienced – rowers from UK Power Networks, who have spent the past months, weeks and in some cases, only days, training in earnest and trying to find their sea legs in time to take the Ahoy Meridian Pull Row Challenge, on Friday night (June 10).
UK Power Networks delivers electricity to all residents and businesses in London and the east and south-east regions of England. The rowers are dedicated in their jobs to keeping the lights on, but in their free time have been getting to grips with fitness regimes and the challenge of synchronised rowing, which requires great coordination to avoid falling in the water or ‘catching a crab’ –- when an oar hits the water at the wrong angle and the recoil is felt in the rower’s chest.
Four UK Power Networks teams of seven members each, have raised £5,300 in donations so far. Money raised will help the Ahoy Centre to host fun activities for disadvantaged youngsters and it also ensures the amateur rowers of UK Power Networks qualify for the Row Challenge.
Walker, who is an electrical estimator, said: “It’s going to be an exciting challenge. The training has been good fun and there’s a good team spirit. The Ahoy Centre helps young kids get back on their feet and it’s very worthy cause.”
UK Power Networks teams taking part in the Meridian Pull Row Challenge on June 10 are: No Punt Intended, Fully Charged and Proc-oar – which comprises two teams.
Donations can be made by visiting justgiving.com and then searching by team name. Cast off is by Chelsea Bridge, between 7.15pm and 7.30pm on June 10, and rowers are estimated to take 60-75minutes to complete the course.
