Another hoot of Praise to you brave warriors. Was just sharing some of yr stories with my son on way to work this morning and he still cant believe that what u guys/girls did was possible. Awesome, wonderful, fantabulous achievement. Enjoy the war stories that will keep rolling forever. xxx Tess Mills (from our Hero Pete Nyamazela's land)

Every congratulation on behalf of the whole Old Salopian Club - you have added a magnificent page to its history and you will be an inspiration to generations of OS to come (sane or otherwise !) Every best wish

A big hearty congratulations. What an amazing achievement! best regards, Peter

Mathew is that you? what happened? you are like half your size! if that's what atlantic row does, sign me up.. but seriously though well done to everyone :) I bet you could write a book about this now.. Best from Peter too Randa (JCT)

Fantastic effort guys. Really impressive. I am looking forward to hearing about it upon your return. Enjoy the flight!

Fantastic - now you'll have to get on the speaking circuit about the trip. Come and start at Shrewsbury!

A bit late on the scene with the messages of congratulations, but just to add mine. What an achievement. Hope you're getting used to dry land by now. Bet the first beer tasted good!! Kind regards Phil

It would appear you have crossed the finishing line. Many congratulations for a job well done.

Absolutely fantastic, well done. So glad you are both there safely. As Terry Wogan says to Girls Aloud "eat something!" Matthew - I think it was a rather 'extreme' way of losing weight, now you will need a whole new 'wardrobe' - every girl's dream! See you soon. Miss Moneypenny

Well done Matthew and Charlie on completing your epic journey! We have enjoyed our daily Roberto Coin updates and are pleased you have arrived safely in Antigua. From all in Accounts at Rudding Park

Absolutely brilliant ! Well done guys !

Congratulations to you both, especially for podium finish - a great reward for all your hard work. Peter Chapman Minchinhampton Country Fayre Committee

Superb effort and result. You and yours must be celebrating wildly and glad the long ordeal is so happily ended. What a great achievement.

Guys, what a phenomenal achievement! I�€�m so very proud of you both and delighted that you are now safely on terra firma. Well done and looking forward to seeing you and hearing all about it. You�€�re AMAZING! With much love, Emmie-Lou xxx

Job done! Well done, both of you - a real triumph and on the podium too, just to make you even happier.....you have made us all feel very proud, and the Old Bramcotians salute you. The Bramcote youngsters will expect a lecture AND a half holiday! Come and join the OBS on a leisurely OUSE CRUISE on May18th,Matthew -not an oar in sight, and we'll give you the best and softest seat on board. Desperate to get the defining pictures into my OBS newsletter - the finishing line one perhaps...? Colin McGarrigle

Well done boys. Now what to do with those beards? You'll have to get used to wearing clothes again too. Clean sheets at night... ah what a joy. Worth the wait?

Well done guys, its a fantastic achievement.Its been fascinating following your progress and never had a doubt that you would be on the podium!!!!

Many congratulations to you both. A fantastic achievement.

Just brilliant!

Congratulations to you both and to the team which have supported your quest. Hope the beer tastes as good as I imagine it will. Enjoy yourselves, it is very well deserved. Step lightly, Stay Free

Many congratulations from Nick - currently in Los Angeles... Hope you have similarly amazing weather to celebrate returning to dry land and one hell of an achievement. Enjoy it all, richly deserved! Nick

Congratulations on your amazing achievement. We've been with you all the way and are all so proud of you! Have fun in Antigua and safe trip home x

What an amazing trip you've made,we have been with you all the way in CPT. Many congrats to you both and enjoy your time in Antigua,have a beer on us!! Lindsay and Nigel x

Um, can the last man out please turn out the lights and post the oars through the letterbox .xx

What an unbelievable achievement and to be on the podium as well.... You are an inspiration to us all. Your mothers will have the best possible Mothering Sunday. Congratulations from everyone at Beaudesert.

Congratulations Charlie and Matthew. What a fantastic thing you have both done, that means the fundraising and the amazing feat you have been doung the past couple of months to bring in that money. I am so proud to know you. Have a good break both, enjoy dry land and all it brings, and get your skinny poorly arse back to blighty Charlie, see you back in the Shire soon I hope. We are going to have withdrawal symptoms without your blog to read every day. All our love and hugs, Liz and Chris xx

Matthew and Charlie. Congratulations on a safe crossing. My only regret is that I'm not there to welcome you in in person. Mike

Just checked site. 1 NM to go. Get in you beauty!!!!! Well done both of you incredible. quite incredible.

Just thrilled for you both and all around you, well well done, what a perfect Mother's day present for Anne Marie and Matthew's Mum! Just been with you all the way (it feels) what EVER we have been doing it has been peppered with 'they are STILL rowing!'. You are both just terrific, so proud of you and so relieved you are safe. Enjoy it ALL, lots of love Pam and all of us from Beverston.

Great effort you two, fantastic to see you come safely and at the front of the field. Look forward to a celebratory drink when you get back. Have a great night.

So glad for Judi and you both! Love Tom and Caroline

congratulations to you both on an amazing achievement we have really enjoyed following your progress To come in 5th overall and 3rd in the pairs is awesome you should be so proud of yourselves Enjoy your success and will see you in The Deerhouse for a pint or two on your return. Richard and Linda Fidler

Congrats boys of nearly finishing! I have been following your amazing story to the finish line and only a few more miles to go! I'm sure you'll enjoy having a proper bed to lie in!! Take Care. Jenna x

We have been watching your progress with great interest and admiration - well done, you are so nearly there and not long now until you will be on that podium. Went to Rudding Park last week - tell parents it is still there and as good as ever!! Champagne corks will soon be popping. We salute you - you brave heros. What an achievement. Regards, David and Rosemary Page from Ripon.

Fantastic achievement.So brave and courageous we are in awe of you both. We will miss your daily blogs but look forward to hearing all about your adventure.Love The Fullers

You boys are "awesome"-to use Wills words!What an amazing feat you have achieved.We are so proud to know you.Many many congratulations from all the stephensons,We will miss the blogs but so thrilled you've achieved your dream. Banoffee pie time!! xx

BRILLIANT FINAL PUSH GUYS ..TRUELY AWESOME EFFORT ...u r hours away from completing an immense challenge.v proud to say "i know you"..enjoy the approach to land where there r many to welcome you to the and over the finishing line.many congratulations...well done......

We sent a message at the start and now we congratulate you on such a fantastic achievement. We have followed your progress daily with great interest. Would you mind rowing back now to the start so that we can continue our daily 'fix'!!!!

Hearty congratulations from the Pritchards at Gardener's Cottage. A woderful achievement.

Have you not finished yet? Get your fingers out I thought it would all be over by Easter!

Of all the athletes I have trained over the years, you guys are truly the most inspiring. Whilst juggling work, family and social life, you have both taken on this challenge, trained, organised and completed it with such an air of enjoyment that makes us all want to go out and do a good deed. Add to that the fact you have finished 3rd in class and 5th overall, it makes me so proud to have been a small cog in the great Roberto Coin experience. Well done Charlie and Matthew - you are champions.

What a flying finish.What a sprint race. What a treat of excitement and tension you have provided for your crowds of well wishers. You must be feeling exhilarated within sight of land and your loved ones. Congratulations. We wonder if you're going to miss this as much as we all are. Can we echo the sentiments of the Brain Tumour Trusts thank you message. It is brilliant that what you have done will make research like that happen and we too are grateful for your support for Shrewsbury House. You will help the Shewsy do its work with less well off children and young people in a caring and constructive way,building up their skills and confidence and just making lives better. Can we thank you and all your famililes for the wonderful support you have given to Shrewsbury House Youth Club. So this could be the last time. Great tune that. Will miss all the messages.Feel We know Bill the gardener. Thanks for the ride. Well done indeed. John and Hil and all at the Shewsy

Good luck with your final push - you're almost there what a fantastic effort. We have all been following your progress here at the Shewsy and I can't wait for tomorrow's update

You're almost there? Very many congratulations what a tremendous feat, an amazing effort we are so impressed. Enjoy every moment on dry land........

Remember when i said you must be mad when i first heard what you were going to well i think mad must stand for Motivated Awesome Determined We wish we could be there to welcome you into English Harbour There is a beer waiting for you on the bar at the Deer House when you get home, enjoy the well earned rest. Martin and family

Patience is a virtue, try it if you can. Seldom in a woman, and never in a man!! Thus goes the saying, but now is NOT the time for the crew of Roberto Coin to be virtueous towards the crew of Patience. Particularly, (as it looks from your dots) that they are riding your wake ? Big final effort, dig deep and GO GUYS. xx

this is the moment when the cox would shout "next stroke, paddle firm", so go for it.

Keep going Charlie and Matthew - everyone here at Brain Tumour UK is in awe of your immense achievement. And we'd like you know that your crossing has been well worth the effort. While you've been at sea, Brain Tumour UK has launched a new Neuro-Oncology Research Laboratory at the University of Wolverhampton. It combines two teams of leading scientists from the West Midlands and University College London's Institute of Neurology, helping to accelerate research and ensure good knowledge sharing. Thanks to the support of fantastic fundraisers like you, we have scientists investigating childhood, low grade and high grade brain tumours. Your hard work at the oars will help us understand the genetic causes of brain tumours and identify new chemotherapies to treat them. We hope you've received our regular satellite emails during your journey and look forward to welcoming you home. We'd love to take you on a tour of the research labs so that you can see exactly how your funds are being put to use. Keep rowing and take care - we're thinking of you at every stroke. Best wishes, Brain Tumour UK

Charlie! What an awesome awesome task you have undertaken during what must have been the hardest thing you have ever attempted! Good luck with these last few miles and soak it up before you head back to 9-5!! Godspeed and hopefully catch up over a beer in London! Paddy Richmond

Oh my my, it is all so close now. Good luck for the sprint finish and smelling that cold beer! You have done amazingly. Cant wait to see you and the facial hair xx

You better come in soon, cos you set off several days before I went to the South Pole and you are still out there long after I got back and now I am about to leave for Everest in 16 days! It just makes me realise what a marathon effort you have put in!

Bon courage guys. One last push. But you probably need a wee bit more time to finesse the beards, so stay cool. And we're rowing with you - all the way down the moat.

You are doing a very special thing. Stay Strong and enjoy the run in. All at LYS

obviously my awe inspiring mention of "ladies n beer"have kicked in and the "dot doth moveth"!!!!!not far now guys fantastic achievement both on and off shore.see u upon your return.

Fantastic achievement. Almost there. If you've left anything behind in Gomera, don't go back for it now.

Finish it in style and dream of the celebrations! You've done brilliantly. chris

From the wiggles on the map it looks as if you are battling the elements, so keep up the hard work and I hope the wind will change in your favour very soon.

Well done lads your achievement is amazing and we are so grateful for your efforts to raise money for our young people's development.Enjoy the party you so richly deserve! The Shewsy

"""GENTLEMEN""" the "humans" awaiting your arrival r not scary and u wont be to them[im sure they will have seen worse during your 27odd years of development] so YOU CAN FINISH...lovely "LADIES" await your arrival...beers await your arrival ....the adventure was a one was RACE" u dont have to stay out at sea and wait for the others...ANTIGUA AWAITS U...OR HAVE U LEFT THE BOAT AND DECIDED TO SWIM THE REST.[from a sad person following a "dot"]

Charlie and Matthew, You're almost there - - now get over the line. We're proud of you. Love, McKenzies

am in jamaica and thinking of rowing to join you in Antigua.......any advice??

Amazing effort both of you. A few more days and you will see other craft, people and land, how fantastic will that be? I hope your backsides hold out, just keep on applying the lotions and potions. Much love and god speed to you both. Oh, and enjoy the beards while you can, I cant imagine Nicola letting you keep it for more that a few hours Charlie. Love Liz and chris x x

You must be there by now and enjoying the chilled beers. Fantastic effort.

Nearly there........well done! Cannot believe that you have been at sea almost for the entire length of our term. I wonder who deserves a holiday most.......?? We shall miss your blog. Best wishes from everyone at Beaudesert

Hello Mathew and Team, Peter and I were checking your progress and it seems the worst is over and you are soo close to the finish line! Good luck and I am sure this experience is one you will never forget, just like Alice in Wonderland, you think you will forget it but you don't! :) See you Randa and Peter

Hi Charlie & Matthew - many in Amberley have been watching your great progress since January, a brilliant achievement! It's hard to believe that you're now 'only' 160 miles from the finish (still an epic journey in itself for most of us). Well done, we're proud of you both and know you'll keep up the excellent work all the way to English Harbour!

Feeling so happy for you 2 ( you have done so amazingly well) and so sad for your fans- what are we going to do each day without your blog, your photos and that little coloured dot on the map?!!!!! Our lives will not be the same again. Keep rowing and get there as quick as you can. XXX

Every day for 61days have we been inspired by you keep going and enjoy the final push,frost at Rudding and we look forward to welcoming you back Adele and Terry Audin

You guys are into the swing of things now and flying like hungry dorado's. Blady marvelous buddies. Keep your eyes focused on your victory. All your clever planning, effort and brain power has a huge reward waiting for you just "other side the next set of waves". Keep up your strength, your sense of humour and I hope you kill those nauty miles this weekend. have a good one and will clock in on Monday morn as usual xxx and pls give Pete our man a call just to check in on him...thank you....xxx Tess from Nyamazela land

Hi Charlie, I have a national newspaper who would like to interview you when you finish, what is the best way to get hold of you once you get to Antigua? Also image wise would be great to get a couple of digital images of you sent over. Loving your work rate at the moment! Cheers Cailah

Well done to you both. The updates are an inspiration and the last 24hrDMG looks like another stunning effort. Words cannot convey my respect for your struggles. Steve / LYS

Charlie We send you our congratulations and will let Mark and Cam know of your success - they are on the slopes in Verbier at present - lucky things. Its amazing thing you have both done! Look forward to celebrating on your return - perhaps at the Gold Cup on 19th March????!! Roberto and Rebecca

Hi Guys haventy been in touch for a while but have always been thinking of your fantastic efforts. Keep steaming ahead and you will soon be there,you're doing an amazing job

yabba dabba dooo.... only the distance of a trip down the M1 to London and it'll all be over.. Loving the technical detail, now if you can just get the boat planing.... you'll fly to the finish! sad ex-dinghy racer! Miss Moneypenny

I suspect it's the final push.Troubled waters,but found Dalton.Went to University with a girl called Dalton.If only!and then Shrewsbury could floreat for ever!Give over, does it cost 6 times to keep a child in jail as to send a child to Eton? I thought Eton was a jail!! Only joking,if Sir Eric Anderson is in charge.And I do not mean a Royal Artillery charge.Call me mental?yah!!!

You are both doing brilliantly. I have so enjoyed following your daily slog over the last few weeks. You must be so proud of yourselves to be up in the front of the pack and you cannot let Patience pass you. Keep rowing as you are so nearly there and all your famiies are waiting for a huge celebration. With very best wishes Vanessa, Richard, Charlie,Will, Francesca and Alex Allen

you have got some guts tackling a race like this. You will be glad when you arrive on dry land with your wives/girl friends and family waiting for you. What you have achieved is brilliant and always remember that you cannot take memories away the will live with you for ever

Hi Both I've been a bit remiss not posting anything, sorry. - Been occupied by the recent birth of our baby daughter. We called her Simone - we resisted the urge to call her Atlantic in your honour...! What you are doing for the club is just fantastic. Thank you. John & Pauline Rowe

Well rowed guys, all the Willis' watching with interest. According to Wikipedia, you need to aim below the target when spearfishing due to refraction. Keep going strong and good luck with your quest for sushi!!

Greetings from Gardener's Cottage. The Pritchards are watching your progress with interest and admiration. What an achievement this is going to be. On the homeward dash now; keep up the wonderful rowing.

Brilliant - now aim for the right island!

For the rowers keep on rowing And they're certainly not showing Any signs that they are slowing!!! Not long now - you're doing a great job for worthy causes - fantastic effort. We're following your progress closely here in Liverpool.

keep up your fantastic progress and you will soon be there

You're doing a great job.

Keep up the good work!

The Shewsy full of young people tonight and there on the wall is the map of your progress: brilliant, and all the very best for the tough last push. But finishing will be like.....a taste of heaven!?!

Delighted to see you so strong in your bid for a place on the podium. Great going, great effort.Stay on it. You must be counting in single days now.Well done. All the best from the Shewsy.

going great guns guys.about a week to go.ive issued photo fits to all going to antiga to meet u as u r now hairy brown ""thinner""chaps.probably unlike anything they will have ever seen..enjoy the last few days...take it all in ..BUTfor now...keeep focuuuuuuseed.

Well done to you both! Its brilliant and we are all cheering you both on from cold and grey UK. We are in awe of all your efforts. Roberto (!) and Rebecca Whitworth

Awesome rowing boys, you have come along way since I saw you nearly sinking in the Kennet canal! Best of luck for the final push. Nettles

Hey you two - thank you so much for giving us all such an entertaining and enthralling insight into something most of knew little about before. Life will definitely not be the same without our daily visits to your great website. You are both doing amazingly, and we continue to be in complete awe. Row, row, row your boat safely to the shore. Lots of love from The Gales xx

Hi Guys still following your great progress and that you are almost there, Debbie suggests you think of this last leg of your trip is like a quick trip from home in Harrogate to Devon and back - Easy then!crack on and keep safe. Martin,Debbie Kelly, Stuart

GO Charlie, GO Matthew, GO Charlie, GO Matthew, GO Charlie, GO Matthew!!!!!! :):) It�€�s SO weird to think it�€�s hot where you are now? Weather in England is terrible�€�I was playing in goal for Eton IX the other day (IN THE RAIN!!) and let one through my legs�€�ha ha...SO silly...but oh how we all laughed!! Anyway, keep going boyz�€� remember first pint is on me (or more like several!!!!! LOL :)!! Yes, I�€�m still called the BEER MONSTER...rooooaaaarrr!! LOL :)

You guys are truly incredible. I can t wait to check out those bodies on your return. Basty xx

Great progress, and think of the celebration when you finish!

Really enjoying your daily blog updates. They certainly brighten up an otherwise dreary February in Harrogate! Keep up the good work - not long to go now!

Snow again at Rudding! Getting boring now! Meanwhile your Ma and Pa are sunning themselves in Antigua! Gosh you are doing so well and moving up the race ladder. Pace yourselves though as Charlie P has hit a bad weather patch and got a soaked cabin and it seems the Mermaid may have deserted him so no manual help with bailing out! Miss Moneypenny

Great effort Charlie and Matt. Top speed and cruising in the outside lane. Keep it going, land is soon. Enjoy the water that remains. Shewsy is good. All the best.

The interview on Radio Merseyside was brilliant and inspirational. We are still charting your progression across our wall and plan to commence a piece of art to celebrate your fantastic effort. The Shewsy

brilliant guys just brilliant...your night efforts rpaying off .u get closer n closer to 3rd in ur cat.you nwill be there sooner than later and after a few weeks recovery and back to the ""norm" what a brilliant couple of months ull have to look back over and memories u will never forget.fantastic effort, fantastic cause,fantastic trip. well done!!!!!!! but.FOR A FEW MORE DAYS KEEEEEEP FOCCUUSEEEED!!!!

Charles Kettering, the inventor of refrigeration (but sadly not of ice cream!) said "No one would have crossed the ocean if he could have gotten off the ship in the storm." When contrasting your magnificent endurance against what we have seen in finance in recent years, the old French proverb comes to mind: "Adversity makes men; good fortune makes monsters". With all best wishes

keep up the brilliant progress and you will soon be there

Hi guys, Cannot get over how amazingly well you are both doing, so awesome to be that high up in the results WELL DONE! If there is any chance of getting some images with Charles Russell branding in emailed over to me when you guys finish it would be super helpful. I bet you are looking forward to some sleep and big burgers soon. Sprint to the end now. Best wishes from all the Fast Track Girls.

Waved at the snow in Follifoot as we drove through yesterday. Fantastic rate at the moment - keep it up. Great interview on radio merseyside - sorry missed the one from The Stray John and Hilary

What a fantastic achievement! I keep checking to see how you are doing....... well done! A very well deserved beer is getting closer to you!

Watching your great progress. Well done!

Charlie did a great interview on Radio Merseyside. Sounding really really upbeat, funny and very clear. He handled the whole Joe Lappin question very well and was really positive about the work that The Shewsy does. I have the MP3 of the interview - might make a good addition to this site if I could send it to soemone

Thnks for your message. You are doing really really well. so pleased to hear that Florence and the Machine are powering you along. Steve / lys / shewsy

Young kids from the Shewsy bands performed today at our Mardi gras event - superb

Fantastic effort so far guys, highly inspirational for all us desk jockeys left at home. The mental image portrayed of the two of you disco dancing, naked under moonlight and strobe is as amusing as it is appalling! Keep plugging on and if you are ever feeling lowsimply remember that you are Englishmen and have consequently won first prize in the lottery of life. see you soon Cam

Nice photo on Monday! Congrats on being under 1000. You are right behind those 4 Dames. Meanwhile Charlie Pitcher has definately had too much sun, he is meeting and conversing with a Mermaid! Keep sane and step on those paddles.... Miss Moneypenny

All the Old Bramcotians are with you in spirit and wish you well over the last few leagues....

Hi, Roberto Coin Please hurry up and get to Antigua so that we can get out of frozen New England and go to meet you and soak up some warmth... Good luck you two. We see that you are having way too much fun on board of the Roberto Coin- keep it up!

Guys such amazing progress and your very well placed to get on the podium!! Hope you pick up a tail wind / current and race past the others. Any much respect!! and the very best of Yorkshire luck (sorry Charlie!!) All the best Tom S-S

Well done guys. You are rowing so incredibly well and all us land-locked Pitchers have been following your progress since meeting you in La Gomera. Keep going. Keep rowing. Hope to see you in Antigua soon! Emma, James & Freddie Pitcher

You are flying matt and charlie. And reeling them in .Having passed all your fundraising targets by miles you can hand that baton on and go on reeling in the boys ahead. Soooooo excited I could start running cross country again. So well done. Go on. All the best from all at the Shewsy.

Hi Guys we are enjoying reading the blogs with all the great experiences you are having,it is great to hear and see from the photos that spirits are up, with less than half way to the finish line it wont be long now before you are enjoying that well deserved beer on the beach with family and friends. keep safe and dont forget to enjoy the last leg of your epic journey. Martin Debbie Kelly Stuart

Keep up the good work.Good luck to you both. Phillip and Joyce Campling

once again i am [as many others will be]glad that the censors didnt need to get involved in your latest photo.there was NO margin for any movement at all.glad morale is high and good to see happy smiley faces.beard growth seems to be a little one sided,mat winning hands down.race is there to be won u r doing extremely well ...keeeppp focuuusseeddd.bill.

I am reading Ben Fogle and James Cracknell book to get a better idea of what you are going through. I assume you already read it. Very impressed by your efforts, but I hope you are finished soon!

Keep going! Heard the news this morning on RTE Radio 1 on LW band here in Cambridgeshire. Best Regards Noel Stevens Peterborough, UK

has that ginola bloke u had on board been rowing with u ????or r u trying to out run/fly the fish that visit u on a regular basis????? uve done by far the best distance rowed in the last 24 hrs WOW!!wow!!!wow.brilliant!!!!keeeeppp focuuuusseeddd.

As you say enjoy every minute of it. And just remember that the fundraising you have inspired is just amazing.You would be in Antigua by now if that was the criteria. So when it gets tired, slow, sore or boring, recall the result above. Amazing. Go on.

Well done on getting past the half way point. Its all downhill now guys! Well thats what you need to keep thinking anyway. Imagine the cold beers and hot meals awaiting you but best of all will be the hugs from loved ones at the end. Never mind the smells and mess in the bottom of the boat from flying fish charlie, just think of all the mess after one of your weekend parties at home, and just get on with it. Except you dont have the Legend that is Liz to help !!xx

You are brilliant and doing so well. We are thinking of you and willing you on to a safe and successful voyage.Wish we were at the other end to celebrate with you.

Keep it up chaps . I know James and Ollie are looking forward to sharing some beers with you in Antigua. Charlie, James Holder regrets he cant take time off MP duties to welcome you in in person but sends his best. All good wishes Andrew Croome

It is brilliant that you have passed the half-way mark. Well done, and I hope it gets easier for you from here on. Is it time for another meal of yellow-fin tuna?

Well done on your row so far! Glad things are going well and I am enjoying your updates... keep them coming, along with the pics. Take care and best of luck, Lisa

never thought this non sporty youth worker would be surfing the tinterweb for quotes about rowing - but I found this which I would like to share with you... "⦥uro;?Reflect on your experiences and accomplishments. Remember the dedication, the pain, the jubilation, the camaraderie -- your family. Remember the feel of the oar in your hand, the swing, the perfect catch, the pull, the drive and the run of the boat beneath you. But most importantly, never forget that the glory is not in you or any individual. Instead, remember that the glory is always in the team." -- Joe Blasko, Novice Coach, Saint Ignatius HS (Cleveland) 1996-97 Steve LYS / Shewsy

never thought this non sporty youth worker would be surfing the tinterweb for quotes about rowing - but I found this which I would like to share with you... "�€�Reflect on your experiences and accomplishments. Remember the dedication, the pain, the jubilation, the camaraderie -- your family. Remember the feel of the oar in your hand, the swing, the perfect catch, the pull, the drive and the run of the boat beneath you. But most importantly, never forget that the glory is not in you or any individual. Instead, remember that the glory is always in the team." -- Joe Blasko, Novice Coach, Saint Ignatius HS (Cleveland) 1996-97

Well done on the fresh fish addition to the menu. Must have been an amazing feeling catching cooking and eating neptunes finest offering. Two men tried drive to a car along a canal up north in the recent big freeze and were arrested after it was found with just roof and raised tailgate visible. So there are obviously slightly madder people than you Atlantic rowers out there attempting watery feats. Our biggest worry is being used as a test case for being found drunk in charge of a vessel on the way up to Gloucester on match days. Cheers. Love Liz and Chris on Black Pearl xx

didnt know u could have guests on board.I thought that u both would have wanted to be in the photo with ""david ginola""reading the school card?????.keeeeeppp focussseedddd. bill.

Go that lucky conker

Hi, I do keep thinking about you and your amazing journey. Fantastic...... :-)

We are all in awe of your coninuing humour, courage and determination. We follow your progress daily and were thrilled to see the Beaudesert conker still in one piece. Best wishes from all at Beaudesert

All the best from all in the youth service in the Everton Area. Keep up the brilliant work. steve/lys/shewsy

Shewsy School Social Studies group up a couple of weeks ago and went v well and huge relief over guilty pleas in the Lappin trial. Your efforts massively appreciated by all here. All the v best as the muscles ache: the glorious end will come.....

We are keeping track of your amazing adventure and wish you more great days as you make your way to the finish. Keep marveling at the whales, that must be very exciting!

It is funny how you epistles seem to be fitting in with my life at the moment.Hot Hot Hot was certainly the order of the day this morning with somebody getting a roasting.I suppose good Salopian advice is "Cool down and keep rowing.You know you have to win!" Think of all those lovely beers waiting on the finishing line.

(re 4 Feb blog) Drilling holes! Just think what you will be able to achieve when you get back home - putting up shelves, building flatpack furniture! Keep on trucking! Jane

fantastic to hear that ur morale is back to the high level u seem to have had thru most of your adventure todate...[i have checked with the fisheries dept [the tuna u caught[humanely]was within the legal size for u not to have thrown it back].this im sure will be a grt wght off ur shoulders.anyway great going guys kkeepppp focusssssed.bill.

It sounds like you are a having a fantastic experience, keep rowing and catching from all at The Shewsy

Your posts continue to inspire us. Enjoy it as much as you can. Our thoughts are with you. And well in the mighty reds for a great Derby win !!

Continued best wishes and good luck from all staff and pupils at Bramcote School. We are all thinking of you and following your progress. Glad to see you going forward again and that tuna looks good. Keep smiling guys, look forward to seeing you back safe and sound in scarborough. Wilkie

We think you are doing a tremendous challenge and pleased to hear you are on the move again, not the kind of cruise we are used to but maybe we will give it a try next time. Good luck Keep safe

Well done on your fishing efforts boys. Good luck with the rest of your journey. I envy you seeing whales - must be magnificent. Love the ayletts and archie X

Still in admiration - well done. Hope you heard that School in Boodle Final again beating Millfield on penalties. Get back for it on March 11th ? All the very best

Hi C and M. Great to hear you have taken some time out to get yourselves level and re-invigorated. Thinking of you both!

Great progress keep going not long to go. I seem to be having a problem sending this I hope this one works

It must be really difficult just plodding on but you are doing brilliantly. All the best.

Dearest Mackers and Charlie, YOU GUYS ARE AMAZING. Lots of love to you from London Town, Torts X

"Success is sweet and sweeter if long delayed and gotten through many struggles and defeats.�€� Amos Bronson Alcott,American reformer,

The Shewsy is charting your progress across its wall La Gomera to Antigua keep going we call

you guys are doing so well keep up the good work!! thinking of you and love following your progress.... kiki xxx

Thank you Charlie and Matt for your fantastic effort in support of The Shewsy and for your thoughts for the Lappin family and club. Glad you are back making progress west. How deep can a sea anchor go?

Hi boys - sounds like u r doing brilliantly. loving the blogs..keep going and come on charlie you can do better on that pathetic exuse of a beard!! lol Cam x

glad ur back on the move ...i xpect ur delerious..i thought that during your enforced standstill ud have cleaned up the boat but judging by the photo u seem to have a gargoyle stuck to the boat hatch ....

Just to let everyone know i sent a message to the Sat Phone re the Joe lappin trial result. had a message back from Charlie and matthew saying that their thoughts are with Joes family and friends and all at the Shewsy. Great to know that they are thinking of others despite their own gigantic efforts

Thinking of you both whilst flying over the Atlantic and studying the flight path... it really hit home the feat you are both undertaking! You are doing brilliantly and it is so exciting to see you clawing your way up the leader board. You were both greatly missed in Antigua and many toasts were raised only wish you could have been there with us, lots of love Donna xx

4th attempt at leaving message - (syntax error!!)anyway, keenly following your progress -last 48 hours excluded- love the blogs, just like hearing you chat in the kitchen charlie. Godspeed to Roberto Coin in mid atlantic, from Black Pearl on the Glos - Sharpness canal.xx

So glad your spirits are back and Roberto is flying!

great to see you up and running again. The photo on the update looks fantastic. Tuna tale was amusing. Good luck with getting back on track.

You have the courage to go out and do something outstanding for those more in need - people like you are an inspiration to those big jessies amongst us. Take care of each other stay strong ~ as you have since school. Your bravery and generosity is breathtaking. You are in our thoughts and in our prayers. Good luck one and all fighting for and on behalf of Shrewsbury House.

Hi, I have just seen this link posted by Steve (Waterhouse) on facebook. What you are doing is amazing....very determined and inspirational...also a little mad..which is always good! Best of luck Paula x

Nikki, Sarah thanks for your messages of support for the boys. keep posting

when you sail through a storm hold your heads up high and dont be afraid of the dark. at the end of the storm...etc. all the best. steve. lys . shewsy. ynwa

Hi Charlie and Matt, This is Steve Waterhouses Mrs (his better half) we are following your amazing journey WOW! Hope you are both ok? Keep on keeping on you are have done brilliant and all our thoughts are with you....not long to go now take good care and hope you are not too claustrophobic (hope the fish arent biting!!!) Lots of love and strength Nikki x

I know,Iknow,Iknow.I only wish I had known before.Mother nature can be a pain but the weather will pass.Always remember you have got to win so keep focused.The weather here is glorious so thoughts of skiing are uppermost.Have you not got satellite tv onboard?

hi guys ,keep ur chins high in the air,fantastic effort,keep focuussed ,u will soon be back on track to firstly finish n finish in first....well done guys.

It must be a bit rough out there at the moment,but hang on in there guys, if anyone can get through the weekend you can. Look forwrd to seeing you on your way again soon

Hi, You dont know me, I am a friend of Steve Waterhouse and live in the Collegiate just up from the Shrew. I think what you are both doing is amazing, and it is people like you who make a real difference in the world. You must be VERY good friends to embark on something as arduous as this, knowing that only half the battle is physical, the other half very much mental. To have that trust in each other, to rely on each other, to literally put your life in each others hands, its really quite awesome to think about. I hope the weather improves for you and you can jettison the corkscrews and get back to the well-practised straight lines. Know that there are so many people back home thinking about you and willing you on with every bit of virtual current they can find. Stay strong, think about the finish line, and the nice cold beer that awaits you. Take care, Sarah xx

Looking at the paths the boats are taking it looks like they are being shoved all over the place. Anchoring seems like a great idea - not that I would know ! Stay Strong

You are making us all queasy reading your latest reports. The room is starting to roll. Good luck boys. Hope the time flies. Love Loo and family x

Hi guys its Tess from East London. Just to say hang in there and rest yr bods. God always provides peace in the storm. Courage comes from perseverance. Stay focused on your dream, your are almost there. Keep writing, we are listening and cheering you on even if its on parasail. xxxx Tess from Nyamazela land

Hi guys we go to work we go out we go to bed day in day out and you guys are still rowing wow!hope the weather improves soon and you are able to crack on (sorry no pun intended !hope the the bums ok)all the family are telling anyone they come into contact with that they are proud to know two guys that are rowing the Atlantic for charity,kelly had both customers and staff in the shop gathered around her new iphone today eagerly checking Roberto Coin progress. keep it guys and stay safe Martin

We (the London Marlows) have all been keenly following your amazing progress. You have done fantastically well, and let us hope the bad weather does not last long. Antigua awaits.

Love reading the stories of your row. Thinking about you boys. Marl - cant wait to see the beard on your return (will i be able to see it?). Matt hope you arse is ok? Keep on battling lads and hope the weather coming up doesnt hold you up too much. Lots of Love Bob and Camilla

Your have achieved so much already its very inspirational. Hope the bad weather is not too bad. Given Charlies choice of clothes its a good job there is no webcam. Keep on Keeping on. We will be discussing you at the Shewsy staff / helpers meeting this evening. A map tracking your progress is up in the Club. Steve Liverpool Youth Service / Shewsy

How sad am I! I have been following your progress with such admiration, but it has taken a wordy problem to spur Mrs G on to sending a message to the finest duo on the Atlantic. I think the answer is another. a, an, another, no, not, the, her, er, other, he. PB will be proud of me! You are in our thoughts every single day, and we are so in awe of your amazing progress. Lots of love, Angela xx

Charlie/Matt Hard to believe how much you are doing for the Shewsy. At least it stops me complaining about the cold wind off the river when I walk outside the club! And having a dog jump up at me in the park pales as a story compared to the fish jumping into the boat... Keep on keeping on!! John Rowe

Well, you will soon be able to see your target-just stand up when you are on top of one of the big `rollers`. Just make sure you hold on!

Looks like you are making good progress - keep going!

Just got back from the Antarctic, where I spent 2 weeks climbing the highest mountain on the continent...you were rowing before I went, and you are still at it...very impressed with your efforts! Nabs (HAC)

hello there juast to let you know that everybody here at the Shewsy is rooting for you. we are all very proud of the progress you are making. Keep up the good work and best of luck for the rest of the journey. Hope all is well. best wishes John

2000 miles of rowing?ok big whales?ok 40ft waves?ok food????ok me!!in the garden ?ok PINK PANTS!!ok... BBUUTttt!!!!!! 1 6" riggly tiddler and u r in hysterical ""GIRLIE"" screams?????.u r still going great guns keep up the brilliant effort guys.hope u r taking notes[u can write a book when u r done.oh by the way keeeeppppp focuuuusssed.

quarter point is behind you. hope you get the wind at your back. You are doing really top stuff.

just got back from holidays and in awe of your success so far Keep it up and look forward to a good party in The Deerhouse when you get home, Stay safe Richard and Linda The Deerhouse

Great news - you have passed the quarter point and still in 3rd place. Sorry to hear Matthew has been poorly - take care. The Shewsy is cheering you on.

It looks and sound like you have got my mrs doing the catering for you !. Step Lightly, Stay Free

what an amazing feat you are achieving-we are so filled with admiration and enjoying following the blog. Think banoffee pie when eating the unpalatable and I promise a high calorie one on your return!Hope ailments improve.Love and good luck Anne

Tell the boys we are pulling for them here in Orlando, Florida and we wish them the best of luck. Tell them never mind the "questionable cuisine" and that they are an inspiration to those of us who are keeping up with your posts! C.

glad your spirits r still high.REALLY GLAD the cameraman had steady hands[any movement and the censors would have had to intervene].I also hope the food photo is a""BEFORE n not""AFTER".keep up the great progress guys u r doing v.v.v.well.keeeepppp foocuuuuused.bill

Oliver Pickup interviewed Ben Ainslie at the London Boat Show last week and informed him of your great adventure; Ben wished you good luck and admitted that he �€�would never be able to do such a thing�€�!

Got it wrong again.Keep it up and yes the wine is on the water so to speak!

Wow still going great guns , fantastic to see your progress.Keep at it chaps

diving into the Atlantic, wow what a body... we toasted your safe passage at our shoot lunch yesterday. it is so exciting watching your progress. god bless..

So amazed and in awe of your progress guys. Keep it up. Charlie- what wine can we order for the OS dinner? xx

awesome guys...going great guns,uve always been well placed,up to 2nd/3rd,useem happy n enjoying experience.I know its early days but""U CAN WIN THIS!!!"".[i know ive put on wieght since xmas but""big whale??]keeeep foccuuuused.bill

Hello Guys, fantastic performance! Keep it up and good luck. Its very quiet here in Gomera but the wifi is good now! All the best Jenny & Paul Davies on Ninita in La Gomera

Glad to hear that you are doing so well and getting into your stride now, must be so reasuring to know. We are keeping up todate via the blog and by Mr Simon! Keep up the good work and take care. Bob & JJ

Hi I am part of the shewsy board of man, I want to wish you well and thank you for what you are doing for the children and young people of Everton. I will be intouch soon kathyx

Fantastic boys,fantastic. We have a miracle at the Shewsy too. That Joseph Lappin trial ended in 2 days flat with confessions. So we all feel released and could have come with you after all! You sound /look in great shape and all here rooting for you big style. Love Ya, All at the Shewsy.

great going guys ..from your "blog" im glad u r enjoying your experience..ref the ""dolphins chattering""they were actually asking themselves "why have we swum all this way and hes not even wearing them!![charlies pink ones].keeeeppp focuuuuused.

Well done chaps, great following your progress, very impressive.

Doing really well guys, keep putting on the Factor 30. Bet going down the rollers at speed gives you a real buzz! Rudding is snowy!

Great going boys - thinking of you and wishing calm seas and a slight following wind for you!

Hi Charlie and Matthew. I am loving the updates! You are doing so well. Really pleased to hear this activity involves no trench foot just blisters...! Keep going and when it is getting hard work just think of how much fitter you will be to be able to tackle the bumps charlie! xx

Great to read the update, you are going great guns.Hope the blisters harden soon and the bums stop aching!!!! Keep safe

great to see you stunning progress. Stay Strong. Its snowing again here in Liverpool.

Even with bottom ache it is better being where you are than here and much warmer.Pleased to hear all is going well, keep it up,and continual good luck, luv Godmum

Hugely impressed by your progress. Keep up the fantastic work.

Sending you postive er...waves...from Liverpool

wow fantastic progress guys ...u r well up with the front runners.u r both doing extremeley well.[and u r going the right way!!!]u r going much better than we r on our country roads!!!WELL DONE ..but remember...keeepppppp fooooocuuuuuuused.

Great news to hear that you are progressing so well! Fingers crossed that you will continue to do so - it sounds like conditions have been pretty tough out there. Will and I leave for New Zealand tomorrow, but we will be sure to keep checking for your daily updates whilst we are away. Keep up the good work and good luck for the rest of your journey!

HiGuys great progress we are with you all the way and log on every day you are doing fab keep it up and stay safe Martin and family

Hi Boys, Keeping an eye on you from SW10 and hoping that you are all Ok and enjoying it as much as is humanly possible. In awe of you and willing to you to win!! Lots of love, Emily xx

MMmm """small,sweaty n horrible""" i cant believe that even though u r so far away u r still thinking of me.bad news about the delay but it gives u the chance to catch up on anything u need doing.still white n cold here with more to come ...keeeeppp fooocuuuused

Hello there. Hope the one handed rowing has eased up and that you are both well. The hardest challenge of my week has been trying to get the car up the Hill outside Shewsy Youth Club after the snow came down. The lads at the Club tried to push me but there was now way so it got abandoned outside club. Went back and got it yesterday and all well!

Row, row, row your boat, Gently accross the Atlantic, Merrily, merrily, merrily, merrily, My word, this ocean is gigantic! Keep it up chaps. A solid start. Remember it is a marathon not a sprint. Keep going. There are so many people proudly following your progress. Crack on. Bx

good start guys..keep up the steady progress..not sure if thats a hat ??? or a halo????...no its charlie ...definately a hat!!!!!from your dot u have done v well I notice several teams have travelled more n.miles but r actually behind u so who ever is chief navigator WELL DONE.. yep uve guessed it keeepppp foooooocused......lots of snow here .billtheG

James, Susan, Oliver, Charlotte, Edward,Alice, Louise, Joe, Willow, Jack are delighted you are on your way and we send to you both our best wishes for a sucessful row. We will be monitoring your progress now that we know where to find you on the internet. If it is any consolation it is snowing hard in Northamptonshire. Susan and I have just returned from Australia where the temperature was never less that 25. I hope it is not too cold with you. With love from us all.

Higuys It was unexpected but good to see you at christmas matthew, glad to hear you have finaly got away, the family are following your progress closly and with great pride.The challenge in front of both of you will be an inspiring experience we look forward to seeing you back at the park soon. stay safe martin

Its snowing here in Liverpool. i am thinking of you. good luck and best wishes. Steve Waterhouse, Liverpool Youth Service

Good luck guys - may the waves be with you! I shall be following your progress all the way. Row hard, God speed and much love, Emmie-Lou xxx

Glad youve finally managed to set off. As Sean Connery would put it, "God Speed".

Matthew, when it gets really tough, just remember all the great reasons you are doing this to give you that much needed morale booster. It worked for me walking to the pole! Nabs (HAC)

great start guys [now that ive found your little dot]i shall follow it during your epic journey [!!!almost as if i were there!!!][[[be VERY glad that im not!!!]while u r rowing your ????? off there we r freezing ours off here...stop laughing ...keeeppppp foocuuuussseedd.

off at last egh guys ...roughly 7 hours done ..roughly 1000 to go [boy do i know how to inspire!!!!!]hope all is going well and u got the weather assistance u were hoping for ...keeeeppp focuuuussedd.

Good luck to you both from the Womersley family and all at Beaudesert. We shall be following your progress as we start our new term. The long wait cannot have been easy.

hi mackers really good luck u can do it xx [

Thinking of you both today wishing you good luck and calm winds! Will be following your progress with great excitment, jus remeber to behave Charlie, I might be watching you. Big Hugs and lots of love Godmum xx

And so the waiting is over.. I hope you can thoroughly enjoy the experience and best of luck guys.. Charlie

I think my first e-mail was rejected - so here is another attempt wishing you the very best of luck. Rupert

Hello Matthew, hello Charlie, Just a note to wish you all the luck in the world for your truly exciting adventure. Will be thinking of you as you row. Take care of yourselves and hope you get to enjoy the incredible experince. Much love, Lizzie Fee x

Well galley slaves,the legions are behind you,or are they in front or are you just in the way? Good Luck. Now the business is in hand,over and out.

At last! may the winds blow you safely to Antigua Thinking of you and wishing you all the best, Anne & Ralph.

alea iacta est."crossing the Rubicon"

If you need a galley slave I am always available

I really hope you get a great start and all the hard work and training pays off, no matter how hard it gets it totally beats being sat in the office back in the UK. Have an awesome experience and remeber to laugh when it gets ridiculous. All of our best wishes from the Fast Track girls x

We send our best wishes to you both; be blessed with every good luck, have a great time and enjoy the ride! We are with you all the way!

Good luck. Hope you finally get off tomorrow. We will be following your trip and thinking of you. Love Louise, Crispin, Wilfred, Felix, Olivia, Elspeth and Archie XXX

Good luck to Charlie and Matthew on your epic adventure. We will follow your progress with interest from here in frosty Amberley.

We wish you a speedy and safe crossing, calm seas and a fair wind.We will follow your progress with great interest and our thoughts will be with you all the way. Best wishes, Mike (cousin of Richard) & Judy

Best of luck for a prevailing wind and a successful crossing. Thinking of you. Nick and Malissa

have a fantastic journey! good luck.

Matthew, Happy New Year and loads of good luck to you both. Keep safe. We will be following you all the way.Love from snowy North Yorkshire! William, Carol and Victoria.

Just to wish all the best and will be thinking of you. `keep safe and keep rowing!!!I know daughter Lizzie from `Drambuie challenge fame wishes you well and sends love to you both

Floreat Salopia!

Received this at the Ramada Plaza Southport on the Waterfront.Hope you get away as scheduled.The Waterfront was I think a film with Marlon Brando aka the Godfather.Godspeed you across the Alantic.Happy New Year and the very best of British luck!

Good luck,you two,thinking of you both and take care.and best regards roger lewis and frances middleton

happy new year guys..i see u r keeping your spirits up[or should that be keeping them down[vodka whiskey rum etc etc ]ive sent several messages that seem to have gone astray [as their not on display...but the basics of them were """"ENJOY""" AND KEEEPPPPP FOOCCCUUUUUSSSED....

Hi Charlie Just to wish you and Matthew Happy New Year and say all the Vosses are thinking of you with mega admiration - it must be so difficult to keep fit,motivated etc with the delays. (Sorry if you had a blank message just now - I hit the wrong key !) Lots of love and keep safe - Jenny X

Macca, You will have to forgive me for not being able to make it to any of your final send offs although it seemed like you were well and truly milking all the attention. Saw Eggs and Rob for lunch when I was back, but you were excused not being there. I just saw those 2 and realised what total layabouts those 2 were in comparison to you......stay safe, god speed and good luck. Will monitor your progress. xx

Patience is tricky. Hope the boat is ok while you are away.

Hi I was sorry to hear of the delay to the start of the race. I think what you are doing is fantastic. My Mum died on the 9th of December after a long operation to try and remove a brain tumor. Her birthday would have been on the 29th of December. Wishing you both loads of luck! Michelle

Sorry to hear about the further delay. Sure it will be for the best. Following news with interest. Best wishes and good luck from all staff and pupils at Bramcote School, Scarborough. Wilkie.

hi guys obviously crossing my fingers wasnt enough i read that u have a further wait[29thdec] r u coming back or staying out there??? if i bump into u in the garden my ??? will be answered....anyway which ever way.... have a good xmas..and what a way to start the new year.....keep focused..bill

Guys Best of luck from a fellow Salopian and Yorkshireman. In November and December 2002 I sailed across the Atlantic in a 38 foot racing yacht. We tracked pretty much an identical course to your proposed route. By far the most challenging but also rewarding experience of my life to then and the experience has remained with me ever since. Your challenge is longer and tougher. I wish you the best of luck - row well and travel safely. Best regards Ben Higson

i agree with matt .....""PINK" very scarey not just for the fish!!!!!..blighty still damp n bleak...sun does show itself now n again...fingers crossed for wednesday...keep focused.. bill..

From all of us here at Beaudesert, have a safe and rewarding crossing. We will be following your progress with interest.

Good luck with your journey, its for a great cause I hope you raise your £50,000 and more. Stay safe.

hi guys ..i have sent a few ""supportive messages"""but their on the main message board as i didnt know this one existed.sorry to hear about the further delay..keep focused.. bill

good luck in your mighty journey. from riggs hall!!! :-)

Hi guys sorry to hear about the delay, you must be like coiled springs,stay focused keep positive and stay safe, it will be another story to tell when you are enjoying the beers in Antigua.

..oh, sorry I thought this was the website for the guys going to Vagas for a stag. Anyway, I hope you two are eating well, keeping limbered up and preparing for the task ahead! Hope you get to go soon....

Hope all goes well for you. Wishing you all the best from cold and drizzly London. You are missing nothing here.

Lads, I am sure after all that Yorkshire Olympis training in previous years you must be in great shape.... Wishing you all the best. Sorry for the frustraing start. Hope to have a beer with you soon. Best - Scotty

Matthew and Charlie, Must be very frustrating having to wait for the flares to arrive - still you must be further practising and getting your boat absoultely right etc. Sure you are both now eager to get going - hope it all goes well. Above all, try and enjoy the experience, however challenging ! Best wishes for a great crossing Richard

Wishing you a safe and speedy crossing.