Tom set for an oarsome display (From Bromsgrove Advertiser)

Tom set for an oarsome display

11:54am Monday 19th November 2007

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DAREDEVIL Tom Harvey will be braving the high seas in a rowing boat to raise awareness of the plight of homeless people.

Tom, who comes from Timberhonger, is one of a four man team entered into the 2007 Woodvale Atlantic Rowing Race.

“By embarking on the challenge our team, Pura Vida, hopes to raise awareness of the plight of homeless people in the UK. We have chosen to raise money for the Big Issue Foundation, Crisis and Raleigh International charities which encourage the vulnerable or homeless to help themselves.”

Atlantic rower Tom Harvey

They are set to row across the Atlantic, in a bid to beat the world record of 37 days, and to raise cash for charity.

The 29-year-old, who is currently doing a PhD in international relations, will start the gruelling 2,800 mile journey in La Gomera on the Canary Islands.

The team will row to the finishing line in English Harbour, Antigua, dealing with relentless sun, torrential rain and thunderous storms.

Tom, who sets off on December 2, said: "By embarking on the challenge our team, Pura Vida, hopes to raise awareness of the plight of homeless people in the UK. We have chosen to raise money for the Big Issue Foundation, Crisis and Raleigh International charities which encourage the vulnerable or homeless to help themselves."

Rowing companion Carl Theakston, from Worcester, said: "We count ourselves lucky that despite all the dangers the Atlantic ocean has to throw at us, we've still got homes to return to."

The men will have to cope with cramped conditions in a 29ft ocean rowing boat and deal with sleep depravation, blisters and weight loss.

The first Atlantic rowing race took place in October 1997. Ten years on, the race attracts a mixture of singles, doubles and four-man crews from across the globe.

Those wanting to keep track of the Pura Vida team can check its progress on www.atlanticrowingchallenge.com and make a donation to the charity at the same time.

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