Scottish couple attempt world-record rowing challenge to raise funds for SCAA

A determined Scottish couple are set to take on an ambitious world-record rowing challenge while raising funds for Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA).

Allan Lipp and Mhairi Ross (known as Stormy and Steth) will be taking to the seas in May in an attempt to become the first mixed pairs team to circumnavigate Great Britain by rowing boat.

The challenge, titled the Long Row Home, will be raising funds for two charities close to their hearts – SCAA and the RNLI.

Allan is coxswain of the Wick lifeboat, while Mhairi is a paramedic with the Scottish Ambulance Service. Together, they have 35 years’ seagoing experience.

Allan said: “The journey around the coastline is some 2000 nautical miles and we estimate it will take around 60 days to complete.”

The pair are aiming to depart from Wick on 27 May. Their rowing vessel, Boudicea, is a carbon-fibre boat measuring just seven metres from bow to stern.

To achieve the record, the pair must undertake the challenge completely unassisted, that is, they will not touch land or accept provisions throughout the entirety of their journey. Instead, they will rely on the packed supplies that will be stowed onboard, while an onboard desalinator unit will be used to produce drinking water.

The duo are gearing up for an intense rowing routine which will consist of one person rowing while the other rests to maintain seamless rotation and a continuous 24-hour effort towards their goal.

“Our journey is about pushing boundaries and testing our limits,” said Mhairi. “First and foremost, we need to be physically fit for the challenge, so we are maintaining a strict training schedule alongside our busy jobs and all the other preparations that are necessary before we set off.”

The couple are seeking sponsorship and inviting donations for their chosen charities.

Mhairi commented: “We very much appreciate all the support that we have had to date. Every contribution – large or small – makes a real difference, so now we are looking to others to join us on this adventure as we strive to make history and support the life-saving work of the RNLI and SCAA.”

A JustGiving account has been set up for donations at https://justgiving.com/team/stormyandsteth

You can follow Allan and Mhairi’s journey on Facebook, and Instagram.

For more info, visit: www.thelongrowhome.co.uk/