In April 2026, I will be joining a crew of Oriel College rowers — past and present — to row a Cornish Gig across the English Channel, from Ramsgate to the coast near Dunkirk. We hope to push off around midnight on 10 April, rowing through the night in a traditional six oared gig with eight people aboard.

This challenge is part of a remarkable celebration: Oriel College’s 700th Anniversary, marked by eight Channel crossing crews over five weekends, all made up of Oriel rowers from across the generations. Our crew is a wonderfully mixed group — men and women, ages ranging from 20 to 75. I have the honour of being the oldest rower taking part, having captained Oriel’s 1st VIII back in 1969–70.

We’ll be rowing in the spirit of Oriel’s long tradition of teamwork, resilience, and camaraderie — and we’re doing it to raise funds for a charity very close to my heart.

Why I’m Rowing: The Pearce Coggan Foundation

The Pearce Coggan Foundation, based at Green Farm in Shadoxhurst, supports wellbeing, nature connection, and community resilience. It provides access to nature for people who need it most — from vulnerable young people to those facing mental health challenges — through programmes that combine the outdoors, creativity, and community.

Every pound raised helps the Foundation continue its work offering nature based support, education, and opportunities to people who rarely get the chance to experience them.

The Challenge

Our route takes us from Ramsgate to the waters off Plage de Gravelines, on the French coast. For regulatory reasons we will not be landing — instead we will complete the crossing, turn offshore, and row back to our support vessel before returning to the UK

• Departure: Around midnight, 10 April 2026 (weather permitting)

• Distance: ~32 nautical miles depending on conditions

• Crew: Oriel College 1st VIII rowers across generations

• Age range: 20 to 75

• Number of crews overall: 8 crews over 5 weekends

This is not a race — it’s a test of endurance, teamwork, and spirit. The Channel is unpredictable, the night crossing will be demanding, and the gig is a beautiful but unforgiving boat. That’s exactly why it’s worth doing.

How You Can Help

Your support will:

• Fund nature based programmes for vulnerable people

• Support community wellbeing at Green Farm

• Help the Foundation expand its reach and impact

Whether you give £5 or £500, your contribution makes a real difference.

Thank you for supporting us, supporting the Foundation, and celebrating 700 years of Oriel College with something truly memorable.