Law firm announces backing for epic rowing challenge

Smith Partnership has announced it will be a headline partner for Derby adventurer Vic Handley’s upcoming challenge to row solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

The law firm has joined forces with Vic, from Littleover, who will become the third oldest person at the age of 70 to complete the 3,000-mile solo row across the Atlantic Ocean, known as ‘The World’s Toughest Row’.

The row, which will take him from La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Antigua in the Caribbean, is set to begin on 12 December and take up to 85 days depending on weather.

This year, 39 teams are taking part, including Vic, who is one of only six people to take on the trip solo.

As well as being a great personal achievement, Vic hopes to raise vital funds for four local charities close to his heart – Umbrella, Derby County Community Trust, Safe and Sound and Mind Derbyshire – and boost the profile of the city of Derby.

Kevin McGrath, managing partner at Smith Partnership, which joins Derbion as a headline partner for Vic’s challenge, said “We are so proud to be a headline sponsor of Vic as he embarks on the ‘World’s Toughest Row’.

“The work that he is doing for these charities is remarkable. We’re in complete awe of him.”

Vic is a big advocate for people getting the support that they need for their mental health.

For every donation made, he will offer each person the chance to send him “A Note of Hope”…a message which he’ll print on environmentally friendly dissolvable paper, read out and then symbolically cast troubles into the Atlantic Ocean to dissolve away.

He said: “Age has never been a barrier to me in fulfilling my dreams. I’ll be ready for the challenge ahead, but my main aim is to get home safely and raise the £200,000 for my four amazing charities.

“I’m not bothered about coming first or setting a world record, the challenge is getting safely across the Atlantic, that’s what matters to me.

“Battling my way through a difficult childhood taught me to be resilient, determined, single-minded and ready to meet challenges head on.”

Kevin said: “Vic has six porthole sponsorship opportunities left available. Filling those remaining spaces will help him to achieve his fundraising goal.

“We really want to see him succeed in his mission and urge Derby businesses to get on board.

“Even if you aren’t able to sponsor, Vic also has an online giving page, on which you can show your support. Every little helps.”

To make a donation using Givewheel, visit https://www.givewheel.com/fundraising/2014/vics-solo-atlantic-row/

To find out more about the sponsorship opportunities available, e-mail vicsoloatlanticrow2024@outlook.com