A charity row from Iona to Staffa has raised over £6,000 in aid of Scotland’s Charity Air Ambulance (SCAA).
Members of Iona Rowers and The Iona Boat Association (TIBA) grabbed oars and boarded the impressive Iona Resident’s Red Boat before setting off on their 12-mile row (six miles there and back).
Four rowers and one coxswain (with an additional rower and coxswain swapping halfway) left the island as spectators cheered them on from the shore.
“We left at 10.30am to applause and cheers from islanders and holiday makers alike,” said one of the rowers, Sandra Halliday.
“We managed to row at 3mph and arrived at Staffa in 2.5hours. We then spent an hour in Staffa before rowing home. Maintaining the same speed, we arrived back to Iona at 4.20pm to a crowded beach with people celebrating with us.”
The group decided to support SCAA due to the charity’s strong presence in aiding islanders by speedily airlifting any ill or injured patients to mainland hospital care.
Alison Johnston, who was in one of the safety boats during the challenge, said: “Iona is a tiny island with a growing population and the security of knowing that anyone who is injured or seriously ill does not have to face two ferries and many hours in an ambulance is invaluable, and often life-saving.
“The warmth and professional care given by those running the service is outstanding. I have had a personal experience of this after a recent accident.
“Thank you to all those on the ground and in the air who run this service. It is a fantastic service and an expensive one, and we are happy to show our gratitude and support.”
After the scenic five-hour row, the group were welcomed at Martyrs Bay Restaurant with over 100 others there to celebrate the success of the challenge and enjoy evening festivities. Everyone enjoyed a BBQ, prosecco bar and a raffle that raised £800.
Sandra mentioned: “The night was filled with much chat and laughter…a community united in support of the invaluable SCAA. The number of people who attended was far greater than anyone expected. The support we have received throughout this challenge has been both touching and humbling.”
To contribute to the Iona – Staffa row challenge, visit:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/iona-rowers-team-fundraising-page
