Club Speaker Evening Rowing the AtlanticPresentation by Steve DredgeTuesday 1st October 2024

On the 1st October members were given a talk by Steve Dredge on his  challenge to row the Atlantic from the Canary Islands to Antigua with two other retired colleagues from the Devon and Cornwall Police.

The Challenge came about after a few beers in the local pub where the conversation originally was centred around the physical and mental issues suffered by those in the emergency services who have to deal with traumatic  situation as a part of their work, and the toll it takes on their well-being. The conversation turned to a charity called Rock 2 Recovery, whose aim is to support and help those in the emergency service who are  dealing with major health issues resulting from trauma stress.

The conversation them turned to how they could raise funds to support this worthwhile charity.  A transatlantic row was one idea,  but did not, at that time meet with unanimous approval. However as time went by it became more achievable. A suitable boat was acquired and many long days were spent training around the coast of Cornwall.

Eventually with all preparation carefully in place the three friends set out to cross the 'pond' on the 12th December 2022 arriving in Antigua on 11th February 2023, 60 days 4 hours and 7 minutes later.   

Steve supported his presentation with an amazing video and photographic record of the adventure. Dolphins, Whales and many other sea creatures were their companions during the journey. They also had to endure the boat overturning, thankfully righting itself, and enormous sea states. Very scary just to watch the presentation record.

On arrival they were greeted by friends and family to a rapturous welcome.  However these three remarkable men, through their courage and bravery, raised over £63,000 for Rock 2 Recovery.

Steve has recently been involved in another challenge to run the length of Iceland, again raising funds for the charity, this time accompanied by his wife and several other supporters of the Charity.

At the conclusion of his presentation members made a collections in aid of Rock 2 Recovery. This was one of the most memorable presentations that the club has ever received.

If you wish to know more about the work of Rock 2 Recovery and the Atlantic crossing, you can find out more on their web site StatusCode14.

Report & Photos by: Reg Bennett