67-year-old Island resident Simon Howes has completed an epic 3,000-mile solo row across the Atlantic all in aid of the Isle of Wight’s endangered native red squirrels.
So far, Simon has raised over £75,000 of his £100,000 target on behalf of the loveable red rodents.
It took Mr. Howes 72 days to reach St Lucia in the Caribbean last week after departing Gran Canaria. He entered the IGY Rodney Bay Marina on 29th March at the crack of dawn, where he was surprised by his wife and children.
However, Simon’s progress across the ocean has been far from smooth, having experienced 40ft waves that twice overturned his boat. He also experienced 1 of his oars being snapped in half and his food stores being flooded.
Simon said:
“I went through a few storms off the coast of Africa where there really were 40ft waves – that caused a few problems – the boat overturned on two occasions, through 175 degrees and with me hanging on for grim life to the rails.
“Given my age, this will probably be the final chance for me to row the Atlantic Ocean solo.”
Simon Howes aims to help buy land on the Island to help protect and observe the native red squirrel.
The rower has written:
“Red squirrels are simply amazing animals and need our help to survive.
“I love red squirrels, rowing the Atlantic Ocean solo in a 25-foot boat always seemed like a good way to help the Isle of Wight Red Squirrel Trust raise the money they need to create a sanctuary for them.”
“Please visit my website, www.AtlanticRower.com for more information.
“I hope that you will support me in supporting them with a donation (big or small) to help protect the species for the pleasure of our children and our children’s children. Thank you.”
Simon’s JustGiving page can be found here.
Locally endangered red squirrel that should be. They are very common throughout Europe and Asia.
Well done Simon i’m sure it will help these shy beautiful creatures