Rower plans to be first Irishman to cross the Atlantic solo

A LIMERICK rower plans to become the first Irishman to row the Atlantic solo. Sean McGowan will set out on December 6 from the Canary Islands travelling to Antigua in the Caribbean.

The 100-day journey over 2,500 nautical miles will be part of the 2009 Woodvale Atlantic Row Race.

The row also aims to raise €100,000 to benefit the Limerick-founded charity Soweto Connection to support South African families affected by AIDS.

Sean McGowan said: “It has always been my personal goal to take on this cross Atlantic challenge and a number of months ago I decided that now was the right time for me. I have just completed an MBA and always targeted the completion of that programme as when I would dedicate more time to rowing.

“After many months of consultation with my wife and children we decided to go for this event in 2009. It is a huge commitment from my family as much as myself but it wouldn’t be possible without their support.”

His weekends revolve around travelling to Arklow for open water training and combining that with indoor sessions and a very strict nutrition regime.

Sean said: “One of the toughest things to prepare for is the mental aspect of the event which will mean 24 hours a day with just my own company.”

A schools programme will give children all over the country the chance to record a message of support which will be sent to Sean by satellite as he rows.

This “Shout out to Sean” programme will give teachers specially-designed worksheets matching the school curriculum, and allow the children’s voices to be heard hundreds of miles out into the ocean. All schools and youth groups are welcome to participate.

The funds raised will go directly to building a nutrition centre and school in the Khayalitsha Township in Cape Town.

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