Sponsorship sought for Atlantic challenge

A former St Gregory's pupil is preparing for one of the biggest challenges of her life.

In December, Ealing athlete Kate Hallam and three other women will be taking part in the world’s toughest ocean endurance race - 3,000 nautical miles from La Gomera in the Canaries, to Nelson’s Dockyard in English Harbour, Antigua, as team Atlantic Endeavour.

Kate, who currently works in International Development, and learnt to row at university, says “We aim to break two ocean rowing world records, whilst raising awareness and funding for our chosen charities, MIND and Women for Women International.”

In 1966 Sir Chay Blyth and John Ridgeway became the first men to row the Atlantic. During their 92-day passage they faced hurricanes, 50ft waves and a near starvation diet.

This trip laid the foundation for the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge. More people have climbed Everest or been into space than have successfully rowed the Atlantic, but the race now takes place every two years, with around 30 teams from around the world participating.

Crews suffer from sleep deprivation, blisters, salt sores and the physical extremes that the row inflicts from rowing in shifts around the clock for weeks on end, facing all the raw elements of the Atlantic Ocean.

Kate, who grew up in Ealing and went to St Gregory’s Primary and Gumley House Convent School, is now joining her team mates in seeking further sponsorship for their challenge both from businesses and individuals in and around Ealing and West London.

3rd March 2015