Atlantic row for Alzheimer’s - Basingfield Court

A pair of ambitious rowers, who are set to tackle a 3,000-mile Atlantic challenge later this year, have made an exclusive pit-stop at a Sanctuary Care home in Old Basing.

Sean McGuigan and Andy Warner are taking on the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge in December, but before they take to the shores in Antigua Andy and his boat made an all-important visit to his father-in-law Dougie Keeler, who is a resident at Basingfield Court Residential Care Home in Huish Lane on Sunday.

Dougie, who is living with dementia, was beaming when he saw the boat and said: “I’m so very proud of Andy.”

Tackling one of the world’s toughest marine challenges the pair, who are sponsored by Thrift Energy and DC Iron, will be raising money for the Alzheimer’s Society and St. Clare’s Hospice – two charities close to the rowers’ hearts.

Andy added: “Myself and rowing partner Sean are truly motivated to do our bit to support these worthwhile charities, as Alzheimer’s has blighted my wife’s family.”

The Sanctuary Care home’s activities leader Julia Pattenden continued: “Andy and Sean are incredible. The challenge is such an ambitious test but they are both raring to go and are giving it their all because they genuinely care about their chosen charities.

“It’s so heartwarming to hear their focus and how they are turning sad family stories into a positive thing and raising money for the people who helped their families when in need – Basingfield Court and Dougie will be behind them with every row!”

The Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge will see teams row more than 3,000 miles across the world’s second largest ocean, the Atlantic. Racing to the finish line, teams will row to glory with no outside assistance.

To follow Andy and Sean’s journey, which they have named the ‘Thrift Energy Atlantic Challenge’, or to see how you can support or donate to their fundraising drive, visit the team’s website http://www.northeastatlanticchallenge.co.uk/ or email AtlanticRow@Hotmail.com

click here for more details or to contact Basingfield Court Residential Care Home