Dafydd Helps-Fursse
Age: 32
Height: 5′ 11″ (182cm)
Weight: 86kg
Location: Canvey Island, Essex
Occupation: Teacher
Sea Experience: Experienced Sailor and Sea Scout
Why are you competing in the World’s Toughest Row?
It is hard to describe why anyone would want to row an ocean. Days upon days of repetitive displeasure, whilst peering out at the bleak expanse of the open ocean. It’s very discouraging. But, for the few who venture out into the ocean; they earn the privilege of joining a very exclusive club. A club which boast fewer members than have ever climbed mountain Everest or that have ever trekked to the South pole. The club of ocean rowers. For me, there is no greater achievement.
What are you most looking forward to?
To be honest, I’m torn between two answers. Firstly, I’m really looking forward to taking on an endurance adventure with a group of friends who I truly cherish and respect. I cannot wait to see what we can accomplish and what each day will hold for us all. It’s going to be an incredible experience one way or another.
Secondly, I’m keeping everything crossed that we get to encounter a whale along our journey. I’ve been dreaming of swimming with a whale for a very long time and if this opportunity arises, I will be eternally grateful for the experience.
What are you least looking forward to?
It sounds nostalgic, but I don’t think there is anything I am not looking forward to. I want the full experience and everything the ocean has to offer – good and bad. Only this way can you honestly say that you have rowed an ocean.
Who is your selected charity?
The British Heart Foundation who fund research related to heart and circulatory diseases and their risk factors
Josh Pearson
Age: 29
Height: 6′ (183cm)
Weight: 82kg
Location: South Devon
Occupation: Stone Mason
Sea Experience: Surfing Water baby, 1 year of rowing
Why are you competing in the World’s Toughest Row?
With my love for the ocean combined with finding a complete buzz and passion for rowing last regatta season, putting the two together with a team like the Oardinary Buoys just makes sense.
What are you most looking forward to?
I am really looking forward to witnessing and experiencing first hand the pure power, emotions and beauty that the ocean has to offer, all while strengthening our already powerful bond as a team
What are you least looking forward to?
It doesn’t matter how tight the bond is between the team, I am not looking forward to smelling their “bucket breaks”, missing out on fresh fruit and veg, and nursing salt sores while my friends and family are eating popcorn and watching Britain’s Got Talent at home!
Who is your selected charity?
I am rowing for Alcohol Change UK who are a leading alcohol charity focussing on reducing the harm caused by alcohol and changing a long existing cultural norm.
Alan Kavanagh
Age: 33
Height: 6′ (183cm)
Weight: 80kg
Location: South Devon
Occupation: Marine biologist
Sea Experience: 5 Years of Rowing, 15 years of Diving
Why are you competing in the World’s Toughest Row?
I have always been interested in adventure and having read “The Crossing” by Ben Fogle and James Cracknell I have always wanted to row the Atlantic. When Daf first announced that he was rowing the Atlantic I was jealous, so when he was looking for another crew member, I jumped at the opportunity.
What are you least looking forward to?
I currently am suffering from Long Covid and so the long days at sea are definitely going to take their toll, but I would rather have a bad day on the water than a good day in the office.
Who is your selected charity?
I am rowing in aid of the Rowcroft Hospice. Based in South Devon they are a charity that supports adults living with life-limiting illnesses. The majority of their funding comes from donations from the local community.
