The epic row began in Peru on Friday 13 September and the trio aim to reach the Brazilian coast by mid-October. CJBS faculty member Dr Mark de Rond, along with rowing partner Anton Wright of Clare College, have taken on the 2,077 mile river unsupported, in aid of the Leonard Cheshire Disability charity.
After spending several years of his professional life observing and researching teams of people in difficult circumstances, Mark wanted to experience first-hand what it’s like to contend with the toughest of environments on the toughest of quests. Anton is Head Coach for Clare College, Cambridge, Coach for the University Lightweights and all-round glutton for punishment, having previously taken on the Great River Amazon Raft Race, rowed across the Irish Sea, and completed an Atlantic sailing crossing.
Delays at customs allowed Mark and Anton to recruit a third team member and Murilo Reis, a passionate conservationist and experienced adventurer from Peru, came on board.
The three men are rowing 24/7 and are currently in Manaus, Brazil. They are aiming to smash the Guinness World Record for long-distance rows as well as raise funds for their chosen charity. The challenge has attracted media interest around the world.
Find out more
Follow their progress on their website
Read their blog for discussion, personal reflection, and insight into the challenges of embracing an epic adventure
For shorter updates, follow them on Twitter @rowtheamazon
Image: Murilo, Mark and Anton on their boat
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