Local Hero takes on challenge to become first amputee to row around the UK

BLESMA member and single amputee, John Mollison is joining three others to attempt to break a world record, by rowing 2,100 miles non-stop unsupported around the UK.

Setting off on yesterday, team members John Mollison, Pete Rowlands, Mark Waterson and Dave Hartley will raise money for two worthy causes BLESMA (British Limbless Ex-Service Men’s Association) and the Meningitis Trust.

2011 holds great significance for the Meningitis Trust and ‘Commando Joe’ member Pete, as it will mark the 25th Anniversary of the Meningitis Trust, and also would have been the year of Pete’s son Gareth’s 25th birthday. Gareth tragically died from the disease in 2003.

For John Mollison, this year marks 29 years since he lost his right leg below the knee in the Falklands conflict. Rowing around the UK is a remarkable achievement for John as it means he will become the first amputee to row around the UK. The team’s efforts will raise vital awareness of and funding for the two charities that are so close to their hearts, with all proceeds being shared equally between them.

The team were originally signed up to participate in the Virgin GB Row 2011 Race, however due to lack of participants Virgin and the Anglo American Boat Race Company have cancelled the event. Not wanting to disappoint their charities, the Trust and BLESMA, the four men have decided to undertake an independent row, which will be verified by the Ocean Rowing Society. They will also be attempting to break the current world record of 26 days, 21 hours and 14 minutes, set in 2005.

Pete Rowlands commented: “Rowing non-stop with no sleep or rest, we will be pushed to our physical and mental limits in this year’s race. We are extremely excited to take on this challenge and to raise much needed funds for two charities that are so close to our hearts.”

Over the years the team has continued to take on some of the world’s other toughest challenges including running 150 miles across the Gobi Desert Challenge and trekking to the North Pole. The team are now embarking on their next challenge…

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