Solo rower braves two oceans for Sidmouth Lifeboat
A BRAVE rower has set off on a 13,000 mile fundraising journey to raise money for Sidmouth Lifeboat.
Dave Brooks, from Topsham, started an epic challenge to row across the pacific and Atlantic oceans on Monday, January 4.
The 23-year-old has set sail as part of the Woodvale Atlantic Race, one of the world's toughest rowing competitions which features scores of participants taking part.
Dave plans to raise money for Sidmouth Lifeboat, the Royal National Lifeboat Institute and The Guide Dogs charity.
Reflecting on the day he started the event, he said: "The race kicked off with a bang with nerves filling the air like I've never known.
"It was like 10 minutes before a cup final - multiplied by 1,000, as everyone said their last goodbyes to families, and each other."
Dave had hoped to start his epic journey from La Gomera in the Canary Islands on two previous occasions last month - only to be delayed by horrendous weather which included a hurricane hitting the area.
He added: "I can honestly say that this delay has been a blessing, as not only is the fleet now the most prepared it could ever be, but we have all bonded and become great friends.
"I'm currently adjacent to El Hierro, the last piece of land I hope to see before the finish line.
"I have made steady progress of 1.5 - 2.5 knots whilst at the oars, and am at least drifting in more-or-less the right direction when I'm resting."
Dave, for the first leg of the trip, will row towards Antigua. He will then leave his boat and return to Britain.
He will go back to Antigua next October for the final leg of his journey, where he will row to Panama, through the canal, and across to Australia.
Summing up his first week at sea, Dave said: "On the whole I think I'm starting to enjoy myself. The 13-hour days is starting to sink in...now that I'm settling down for my five hours sleep phase I'm drifting along on course at one knot."
He lists three pros and three cons to ocean rowing.
Cons: "Feeling like a pair of soggy trainers in a tumble dryer, constantly! The rocking and bashing never stops.
"Bruised fingers...from heavy pulling and a few of my finger nails are numb.
"Dried fruit and peanuts have been contaminated by soy protein powder."
Pros: "Phyto-plankton. At night, every oar stroke and every cresting wave sends streams of light coursing through the air in swirling eddies and tumbling plumes. Very cool!"
No problems from sitting for such a prolonged time.
Dave is also pleased with all the messages of support he has received via his website: www.davebrookssolo.com.
He added: "That's it for now...keep enjoying the snow back home and I'll do my best to enjoy the sunshine!
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