Pupils and parents from the Hampton and Lady Eleanor Holles School Boat Clubs have raised over £80,000 after completing a remarkable 80-mile sponsored row on the River Thames to raise funds for local charity Shooting Star Children’s Hospices.
Four Hampton Eights, three LEH Eights, a mixed Quad, and two parent Eights tackled 80 miles and 28 locks as they covered the distance from Radley College Boat Club to Hampton. The oarsmen and women aged from 15 to over 50, overcame blistered hands, aching muscles and every weather condition from soaring temperatures to torrential downpours, to complete the row. They were ably supported by an army of parent volunteers manning the locks, providing much needed sustenance and offering full-voiced vocal encouragement along the way.
The rowers’ spirits were boosted by news of generous donations flooding in and to date the sponsored row has raised in excess of £80,000 (including gift aid) – a figure which is likely to continue to increase in the coming days. Executive Vice President of Shooting Star Children’s Hospices, Karen Sugarman, thanked everyone for their herculean efforts:
This magnificent rowing challenge was nothing short of fantastic. Huge congratulations go to every single person involved. The incredible amount raised will help us to continue giving a vital lifeline to support families across Surrey and west London facing the unimaginable.
Hampton School’s Director of Rowing, Colin Greenaway and Acting Head of Rowing at LEH John Moon, congratulated all on their achievement:
This was a remarkable feat with Fifth and sixth formers rowing over 24 hours across two days to cover 80 miles of the River Thames. None of this could have happened without the sterling efforts of colleagues and parents who worked tirelessly to support our incredible oarsmen and women. It was a truly inspiring community effort and we are all delighted to have raised so much money for the Shooting star charity.
Chair of the joint schools’ Boat Club Association, Bryan Kelly added:
We are incredibly proud of rowers, young and old, who took on this grueling challenge. Tremendous teamwork on the water and on land ensured a memorable weekend and significant donations to a very worthwhile cause. Heartfelt thanks to all who made this event happen.
Donations are still welcome. Please click on the link here to donate.
Back to All Articles
