‘Row around Singapore Island’ Takes off today
The epic endurance challenge that will see 32 volunteers rowing 140km non-stop around Singapore is starting in less than 24 hours. The project has raised a staggering $450,000 with more donations flooding in daily for global maritime charity The Mission to Seafarers.
In Singapore’s 50th Golden Anniversary year, the project proudly carries the SG50 logo of support along with official endorsement by President Tony Tan Keng Yam of the Republic of Singapore and Mission to Seafarers’ President, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal of the United Kingdom.
Secretary General of Mission to Seafarers, Andrew Wright is in Singapore for Mission RASI and to support the rowers.
Andrew said: “RASI is an enormous challenge, one imposing the greatest physical demands, elements of significant risk, months of hard training and many months of the most detailed and intricate planning. Those taking part, and their families, have shown an extraordinary commitment. It is a privilege for me, as Secretary General of The Mission to Seafarers, to be present in Singapore for this event. Our chaplaincy team based at our Seafarers’ International Drop-In Centre in Jurong Port provide friendship and hospitality to those seafarers on whom we all depend and yet who are so far from home for so many month. Mission RASI will make a huge difference to our ability to sustain and enhance our ability to respond, both here in the great port of Singapore and beyond. Our profound thanks go to all involved in so many ways, including the 61 sponsoring companies as well as many, many individual supporters and volunteers.”
The legacy of the project extends further for Singapore than just a row or raising money for seafarers. Project leader Lewis Hart said “The legacy of these boats will focus on young Singaporeans, we are working with CORD – (Community Outreach Recreation & Development) with the aim of assisting young Singaporeans, giving them an opportunity to develop rowing skills, promoting teamwork and fitness through active inspiration. We are looking to assist less fortunate children and young adults from broken homes, low income families, troubled academic and lawless backgrounds here in Singapore to assist in turning their lives to ultimately turnout confident, well-rounded, team-orientated and capable young people who will contribute to the Singapore community.”
