Atlantic Rowing Race - Support Atlantic Guardsmen

In December 2022, four soldiers will take part in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge- without a doubt the worlds toughest rowing race.

 

We are all serving members of the Scots Guards and have come together based on our aspiration to champion mental health and resilience through what continues to be a challenging pandemic. Rowing on the 40th anniversary of the Falklands War, we aim to commemorate the sacrifices made in 1982 and successfully raise over £100,000 in support of our chosen mental health and wellbeing charities. A strong team bond, along with a clear understanding of our aim, will be critical as we embark on one of the ultimate tests of physical and mental fortitude; battling 30+ foot waves, cramped sleeping quarters, sleep deprivation and physical exhaustion whilst rowing 3000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean. 

 

Central to our decision to take on this challenge is to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Falklands War. A conflict in which the Scots Guards fought and Max's father, Robert Lawrence MC, was severely wounded. The teams passion to support serving and veteran soldiers is therefore at the very heart of our drive and determination to raise money and awareness for our chosen charities; the Scots Guards Charity and ABF - the Army’s national charity.

 

Both these organisations have a vision that all soldiers, veterans and their families should have the opportunity to avoid hardship -- mental, physical or financial -- and enjoy independence with dignity. They provide immediate, critical and often life-changing support to those in need and their families, serving or retired. Mental health issues in the Military remain as relevant as ever. The recent withdrawal from Afghanistan has been a major trigger for many former soldiers and caused a huge spike in veterans seeking mental health help. Experts have said that PTSD can affect up to 40% of forces members. Such is the issue, that the number of military deaths by suicide jumped 25% from 2019 to 2020.

 

By supporting the Atlantic Guardsmen team you will be enabling us to raise awareness and funds for critical support whilst showcasing the British Army’s strengths on the world stage. All money raised will be split 50/50 between our chosen charities. We are extremely grateful for your support and cannot wait to have you alongside us throughout this arduous and life changing adventure!

 

For more information on what we're up to and follow our story see click here.

 

Click here for a video showing what the race is all about .