After the usual logistical stresses and the week’s snow chaos, it was a relief for Phil and I to get out on the water together at last today.
The mirror-calm of the London Regatta Centre may not be an ideal replica for the world’s busiest shipping lane, but it was an ideal place for international rowing coach Simon Goodey to pass on some much-needed tips.
We have much to learn, and less than a week to do it before we take to sea, but it was a real boost to spirits to actually get out on the water today.
Our attempt to row to France is part of Phil’s plan to raise £1million for Help for Heroes.
You can learn more, or make a donation, here. You can also donate 40p by texting ‘Phil’ to 88886. Thank you.
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One Comment
Alastair, if I may address you as such. I feel compelled to write to you and let you know just how much I enjoy your writings, how much you stir the passions of travel, the thirst of the unknown.
Several months back, while my girlfriend was visiting me here in Sacramento, CA (she’s from Vancouver BC) she happened to listen to one of your podcasts, I am not sure which one and it probably does not matter. What followed, when I returned from work that night was a serious conversation between the two of us. She was deeply concerned that my choice of role models was deeply flawed. It was your podcasts that brought up the always touchy subject of cycle touring and traveling. It is always hard to explain what travel means and where she stands, where we stand in this world.
We are still together yet today, while talking over Skype I had mentioned your name once again and her immediate reaction was “if we have kids Alastair’s books will be banded from the house”. Yet it is those same books that provide a deep and unending hope while I work to fund my next cycling trip, through Central Asia and Tibet again, perhaps with luck into India and continuing on.
What I wanted to write was just a simple thank you. There is a deep need for travel, to meet new friends that pulses through my veins and your books have helped to keep that sustained during this year and a half of work.
Thank you
Journey On,
Chris Rock