L-R: Jooles and Ian
A Nottinghamshire couple are training to row across the Atlantic Ocean, a challenge which they hope will raise thousands for charity and see them break a world record.
Jooles and Ian Paillin-Dean are taking on what’s known as the ‘World’s Toughest Row’ – 3000 miles battling waves up to 30 feet high, rowing around the clock for weeks on end.
They’re aiming to become the fastest mixed pair to ever complete the challenge – with Jooles overcoming personal tragedy to make the bid.
The 42-year-old mum of two was originally preparing to row the Atlantic with the support of her former partner, but he sadly passed away in 2020 – after battling cancer for 18 months. She only discovered he was ill 11 weeks before he died.
He made Jooles promise in his last days that she’d fulfil her dream, with or without him.
She has since found love again, marrying Ian in 2021, who she met at an ocean rowing event. Calling themselves Stronger Twogether, the pair live in Ratcliffe-On-Soar and are preparing to complete the challenge together in 2025.
Jooles said: “Rowing the Atlantic is something I’ve always dreamt of doing. It really is the ultimate adventure and a challenge that very few people have completed.
“We know that this isn’t going to be easy… We’ll be coping with things like blisters and sleep deprivation for weeks. However, it’ll be worth it as we inspire our children and experience something amazing as a couple.
“Even though it’s a couple of years until the challenge, training is well underway and we’ve just got back from a brilliant trip to Holland where we spent a week on board an ocean rowing boat.”
Jooles and Ian need to raise £150,000 just to take part in the race. Their costs include race fees, a specialist boat and essential supplies.
Ian said: “If you’re looking for a unique way to globally showcase your brand’s commitment to sustainability and support a great cause, please do get in touch with us. We’ve got plenty of sponsorship opportunities… you could even end up with your business logo on the side of our boat as it crosses the ocean!”
When they do the race, the pair plan to raise money for the Leicestershire hospice LOROS and an environmental charity yet to be decided.
Ian continued: “LOROS are very special to us as they provided end-of-life care for my Mum. We would have been lost without them and the thought that we’re raising much needed cash for what they do will spur us on throughout the challenge.”
There’s an opportunity for people to meet Team Stronger Twogether at the Red Hill Boat and Tractor Show at Redhill Marina over the August Bank Holiday (26th-28th). Visitors will also be able to check out their ocean rowing boat.
You can sponsor the pair and follow their progress at strongertwogether.co.uk.
