THE MISSION

Four Devon "Beys" are challenged themselves to cross nearly 200 miles of the Mediterranean over three days to raise funds for a worthy cause.

The row itself was a challenge but a lot went into the preparation that made this endeavour worthy of your support - Since May 2024, they covered over 4 million metres on the concept 2 rowers (and this includes the 30k that Ian did in his effort to be the least prepared but most able seaman!)

THE BOAT

The crew will man a 24-foot ocean rowing boat designed by Justin Adkin. Designed to self-right and withstand the worst of weather, the boat didn't fail them. With 2 water-tight cabins and a cockpit in the middle, they had minimal creature comforts but appreciated the onboard navigation system and watermaker.

THE CAUSE

NOMAN raises awareness about the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) related cancer epidemic in men and women, and campaigns for universal HPV vaccination, while challenging participants to extreme endurance races across the world.

HPV is the causal agent of 5% of cancer, yet the vast majority of people remain unaware of the link between the two outside of cervical cancer. We can prevent HPV cancers simply by vaccinating both boys and girls against HPV.

The HPV-vaccine is a cancer preventing vaccine, and presents the greatest opportunity we've had to prevent cancer in decades.

Over 60 countries now protect both boys and girls against HPV. We won't stop until every country is doing so.

THE CREW

Chris Bentley(45)

He is the youngest and was least aware of the scale of the task ahead. Although he is very handy on Concept 2, hedidn't grasp that three days at sea, sleeping only an hour at a time in a 20-foot x 4-foot living space would be quite the challenge.

He founded Notworking Networking and the NOTTY awards and plays a significant role in the Building Brand Marketing conference. Additionally, he hosts events throughout the Westcountry, ranging from Ideas festivals to sporting dinners; this guy knows how to command a room!

With a philosophy degree and 13 year pro rugby career behind him, the big man will look to both entertain and motivate his shipmates

Ian Dunstan(50)

Ian Dunstan is the Managing Director at Cobalt Business IT and Comms, where he combines innovation with a people-first approach to help businesses navigate the ever-changing digital landscape.

Known for his hands-on leadership style and down-to-earth attitude, Ian creates a workplace where enthusiasm thrives, and challenges are tackled with confidence.

Outside of work, Ian’s passion for rugby and his social lifestyle keep him on his toes. He’s as approachable as they come, ready to roll up his sleeves and find practical solutions. He is the only one who has used his Concept 2 rower as a clotheshorse for five years! The charity is very close to his heart, having lost his dad, Charles, to Cancer a few years ago.

Neil Hitt (57)

As a former ocean rower ( Atlantic Ocean 1997 - 58 days) and England Rowing representative ( Home International 1996 Mens 2X ) Neil brings a wealth of rowing expertise and experience.

Neil had the task of getting the team ready for rowing for extended periods where efficiency was the key.

As a former World Record holder and current UK record holder for 24 hours on a rowing machine ( Men 50-59 279,242 metres ) he was very aware of the mental fortitude that will be required to complete the row and got stronger as the challenge progressed.

Nick Sprague (58)

Nick Sprague is an Entrepreneur, Angel Investor combined with charitable and philanthropic giving .

Described as a commercial “fire starter” due to his insatiable positivity and ability to see, and solve problems while keeping things simple with common sense and humour.

He once walked with a good friend from Exeter to London to raise money for the Nepalese after their devastating earthquake and feels adding a Mediterranean row of similar distance is a good challenge. It also ties in well with his long-term plan to row around the World (40,000km) on his indoor Concept 2 Rower, which started during lockdown. Approaching a quarter of the way, he estimates another 15 years will see that challenge ticked off!

He loves skiing, walking his black labrador to the coffee shops or pubs, and, more recently, learning to BBQ properly, thanks to his team mate Ian.

Nick was excited and nervous about the challenge but knew his fellow teammates would support each other and his skill on the VHF was vital to mission success - including rerouting a 400m 380,000 tonne supertanker!