The Friendship Amateur Rowing Club in Whitby has raised over £1,500 for WHISH by rowing a staggering 888,806 metres on indoor machines to support children with disabilities and hidden impairments.
Whitby's Friendship Amateur Rowing Club has successfully raised over £1,500 for a local charity, WHISH, following a gruelling indoor rowing challenge.
Held on Sunday the 22nd of March, the 'Rowathon' brought together club members, volunteers, and local supporters. Participants took turns on rowing machines throughout the day to keep the challenge going, creating a lively and supportive atmosphere as they cheered each other on and worked together to reach their fundraising goal.
During the event, the team rowed a staggering 888,806 metres, which is nearly the equivalent of rowing from the Yorkshire Coast to Copenhagen as the crow flies.
The funds raised will benefit WHISH, a charity established in 2008 that provides a range of services tailored to meet the needs of children and young people in the Whitby and Esk Valley rural area. The organisation supports those who have a disability, Special Educational Needs, or hidden impairments. They currently provide support for over 200 children and young adults through support groups and social activities.
Steve Bremner, the Chairperson for WHISH, said:
"We are incredibly grateful to everyone at The Friendship Rowing Club for their outstanding effort and generosity. To row an incredible 886,000 metres and raise £1500 is a remarkable achievement that will make a real difference to the people we support. Their commitment and community spirit are truly inspiring and we cannot thank them enough."
The money raised will go directly towards WHISH activities for children. According to the charity, the young people they support have expressed a strong interest in expanding their gardening activities. The children are keen to grow their own fruit and vegetables, which will help them develop practical life skills, teamwork, and an understanding of healthy eating and sustainability.
Among those involved in the club's activities and the charity partnership are club captain Emlou Tyerman, vice captain Mike Weatherill, Isla Weatherill, Tallulah Jones, and Flora Burns, alongside WHISH Trustee Tony Walker.
Founded in 1879, The Friendship Amateur Rowing Club has a long tradition of bringing people together through the sport of rowing. The club fosters teamwork, fitness, and community spirit, offering a fantastic full-body workout that builds confidence. The club emphasises making friends and enjoying time on the water in a supportive and welcoming environment.
Following the success of the Rowathon, the Whitby-based club is hosting an open day on Sunday the 19th of April at 10 am. The event is described as the perfect opportunity for those looking for a fun new sport or a way to keep active.
The open day is available to anyone aged ten years or older, making it perfect for beginners and anyone curious about trying something new. Attendees will have the chance to meet friendly coaches and members, learn the basics of rowing and water safety, and even try rowing for themselves, weather permitting.
Both WHISH and The Friendship Club have extended their thanks to all the participants, supporters, and volunteers who made the fundraising event a success.


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