Hi

My name is Myles Watkiss and a few of my friends and I have just completed a 24 hour charity rowing event in aid of Multiple Sclerosis.

Apart from the fact that millions of people world wide suffer from this condition and that very little is known about the causes. The main reason that I did this event is that, for the major part of my life my mother has had MS which has turned her from being incredibly active and sporty to the point where walking has become increasingly difficult, and then a few months ago my little sister (who was 13 at the time) was diagnosed with it aswell. The money that I hope to raise will be used to help fund research as well as helping children with MS to live as much of a normal life as possible.

The event involved over 50 rowers taking part on 10 CII indoor rowing machines.  The main teams, including my own, consisted of just 3 rowers rowing for 24 hours non-stop, each rower rowing one hour in 3.  We also had additional CIIs so that anyone who wanted to take part could join in.  Even my Mum had a go.

Sir Matthew Pinsent kindly acted as official starter to the event.

The event took place on the Radley College sports field under a collection of gazebos on the edge of the cricket pitch.  Fortunately the weather was fine throughout. 

We kept ourselves going with plenty of food and drink, a couple of outside lights and, of course, music.  As the night progressed, we resorted to using pillows on our seats to make rowing more comfortable.  From time to time we could be heard singing together to keep ourselves going.  We even managed a hymn on Sunday morning to make up for missing Chapel.

During the 24 hours, the teams "travelled" a total of 3,914,206 metres.

I have to say that it was much harder work than I had expected and wish now that I had listened more to the advice beforehand about not pushing too hard during the early sessions.

I would like to thank those who have given donations which have enabled us to raise well over our target of £10,000 for The Multiple Sclerosis Society.

I would also like to thank the many people who turned up during the event and offered words of encouragement as well as those who have written to me giving their support.

If you have not already donated, please do so through Justgiving since it is quick, easy and totally secure. It’s also the most efficient way to sponsor me: Multiple Sclerosis Society, Eastbourne & South Wealden gets your money faster and, if you’re a taxpayer, Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift Aid, plus a 3% supplement, are added to your donation.

So please sponsor me now!