THE MISSION

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

The row itself is a challenge but a lot is going into the preparation that makes this endeavour worthy of your support - Since May 2024, they've already covered over 3 million metres on the concept 2 rowers and this will expand as the date gets closer.

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 won't fail them. With 2 water-tight cabins and a cockpit in the middle, they will have minimal creature comforts but will appreciate 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 least aware of the scale of the task ahead. Although he is very handy on Concept 2, he hasn't grasped that three days at sea, sleeping only an hour at a time in a 20-foot x 4-foot living space may 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 has been tasked with getting the team ready for rowing for extended periods where efficiency is 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 is very aware of the mental fortitude that will be required to complete the row.

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 is excited and nervous about the challenge but knows his fellow teammates will support each other.