Best of Luck to the Buoys!

We were thrilled to see OVs Matt Bladen (W 08-15) and George Farmiloe (Br 08-15) back at King’s this week, as they prepare to fly to the Canary Islands ready to start the ‘World’s Toughest Row’ in December.

Matt and George, using their team name “The Worcester Buoys”, were in the midst of a media day to raise the profile of their incredible challenge of rowing 3,000 miles (4,800 Km) across the Atlantic, unsupported, in aid of Acorns Children’s Hospice. They returned to their old stomping ground of the King’s Boathouse to borrow a boat for their interview with ITV Central, which, despite the rather wet and cold weather, even inspired the reporter and cameraman to get on the river with them! It also gave the OVs a great opportunity to catch up with their former rowing coaches, Head of Rowing, Jim Chalmers (Hon OV), Will Bird (Hon OV) and Robin Booth (Hon OV).

In addition to Matt, George, and ITV Central, King’s also welcomed Dale Dyer, whose son, Jack is the inspiration behind both the challenge and fundraising for Acorns. Matt explained, “We’re rowing in memory of a close family friend, Jack Dyer, who sadly passed away in 2020. Jack developed a severe form of cerebral palsy from birth, meaning that he required 24/7 care throughout his life. Acorns provided crucial care for Jack and support for his family, including vital respite, allowing them to recharge their batteries and enjoy time together away from the complex care Jack needed. We are prepared to push ourselves to our limits to raise both money and awareness for Acorns.”

George and Matt are hoping to raise £100,000 by completing the row across the Atlantic, which will see them row in two-hour shifts to cover the miles before reaching the finish line in Antigua in March 2024.

Jim added, “It was wonderful to see George and Matt back at King’s, where they spent so much time enjoying their rowing. The entire King’s Rowing Community wish them the very best for a fast, safe and fantastic row across the Atlantic.”

Earlier this month, George and Matt had a lovely surprise, explaining, “A shout out to Jim, Will and the whole of the King’s Worcester Boat Club for their support, especially for repairing our spare rudder for the row and kindly signing it. It’s going to make a great good luck charm out in the Atlantic!”

If you would like more details about George and Matt’s fundraising, please contact alumni@ksw.org.uk