British soldier more than 75 days into world-first Atlantic row
British soldier, Jack Jarvis, is currently attempting something no one has ever done before – rowing solo, unsupported, from mainland Europe to mainland North America, all in an attempt to raise money for the incredible charity, brainstrust.
The whole journey is around 4,500 nautical miles meaning Jack, who departed from Portugal on Friday 3rd December, will be at sea, alone, for around 120 days, rowing an average of roughly 50 miles every single day!
Jack’s reason for doing this unbelievable challenge is in memory of his grandfather, who passed away in 2007 from a brain tumour, so understandably Jack now wants to raise as much awareness as he can for this awful illness, which effects so many people and families worldwide. He’s already raised more than £30,000 and has received shout outs from the likes of David Beckham, Gary Neville and Sir Steve Redgrave.
Jack, a member of 59 commando, said: ‘To think I’m now more than 75 days into the row is crazy and I’m very aware there’s still so much work to do if I want to achieve this world record.
‘There’s been ups and downs and these are of course largely weather dependent. I once spent four days in parachute anchor which was incredibly testing but I looked on the bright side and used it as an opportunity to catch up with everyone from back home. My military training has definitely played a huge part in getting me this fair, particularly with my mental resilience.
‘I’m also looking a lot different to when I left, I’ve no doubt shed a few pounds and I’ve currently got a Tom Hanks in Cast Away look going on, which is only right as I brought along my good friend, Wilson!
‘It’s now all about keeping my focus and making sure I make it to the finish line in good time and make my family, friends and the British Army, proud.’
Will Jones, CEO of brainstrust, added: ‘All of us in the brain tumour community are cheering Jack on. This is a herculean transatlantic record attempt. His incredible spirit, endurance and tenacity are inspiring us all. Jack has seen first-hand the impact of a brain tumour diagnosis on his family and we are grateful that he has chosen to use his record attempt to improve the experience of others. He is raising awareness of the isolation, fear and confusion that go hand-in-hand with a diagnosis, and also raising vital funds for brainstrust’s mission to help more people every day, on top of the thousands we reach every year. Jack, thank you.’
For more information about Jack’s challenge and to donate now, please visit: www.unitedweconquer.co.uk/
