September the 15th 2013, saw the Zephyrs embark on their biggest challenge yet. The Boston Marathon, a 50km / 31 mile, rowing race from Lincoln to Boston.
We (and our super sub Rowan) had done as much training as time had allowed (3 x 6kms on the ergs take forever!), worked out our blister strategies and even practiced “Easy, Drink, Row On”, but nothing prepared us for the race itself!
Setting off at about 11.30am, we made quick time on the sheltered part of the River Witham to the lock where Ian Watson was on hand to help us carry the boat and blades to the other side. Refreshed from a stretch and some food and drink we optimistically set off, only to hit the wind. If you imagine the reach on a very windy day and never reaching the railway bridge, that’s about right! Then luckily, to stop us complaining about the wind, at about 30km it started raining.
Anna was at our 32km pit stop with fresh water and jam sandwiches so refuelled with only 18 km to go, we went for it. A few more quick energy stops were necessary, but we made it to the 48 km marker when the adrenaline kicked in and we picked up the pace towards the finishing line.
We finished in 4 hours 44 minutes, apparently a respectable time considering the conditions!
So thank you to Ian Watson for the trailering, Anna Whitelock for the driving, Rachel Newell, Pete Brooks and David Levien for subbing, coaching and coxing over the summer and to all others that helped us complete this challenge.
Finally, and most importantly, we did this race to raise money for Rosies ‘off road’ wheelchair. Thank you all for your donations – we have raised over £5,000.
Thank you
Miranda, Carol, Tiggy, Kate, Denise, Nomes, Belinda, SaraK, SarahC (and super sub Rowan)
