Have you ever thought about rowing the equivalent of the English Channel? Well, that’s exactly the challenge Joanna Prance and friend Fiona have recently taken on in memory of Fiona’s beloved sister Jane and in support of the MASIC Foundation and Colostomy UK.
We caught up with Joanna, 46, to delve a little deeper into the inspiration behind the fundraiser which has raised over £1,300, and find out just how difficult the 21-mile/33km row was to complete.
Joanna Prance is a Personal Trainer in Camberley with over 15 years’ expertise in a number of specialist areas, and is also an ostomate, which means Joanna has a stoma and is also an advocate for the MASIC Foundation; a charity that supports women who have suffered serious injuries during childbirth.
Speaking to us about the challenge, Joanna said: “My friend and client Fiona wanted to undertake a challenge in memory of her beloved sister Jane. Jane was a keen rower and had joked about rowing the Channel with Fiona. In Jane’s words we are doing this ‘for the love of the challenge’ and fundraising in the process.
“In addition to fundraising for the MASIC Foundation, I’m also fundraising for Colostomy UK. I had stoma surgery two years ago. Colostomy UK supports and empowers people living with a stoma as well as raising awareness. I also want to inspire fellow ostomates to be active.”
Blisters and numb bums are what awaited Joanna and Fiona as they started training for the event in December 2021, and through determination Joanna was able to increase her duration and weekly distance to an average of 20-25,000m per row.
“It was tough, my hands started to blister 60 minutes into the row and that was painful. The last hour was as much a mental challenge as physical. I was super happy that I completed the row in 2hrs 30,” explains Joanna.
“I would like to say a massive thank you to all those who have donated and supported me in my efforts to fundraise for charities that mean a lot to me personally. Their contributions will help improve and change the lives of those needing support and living with a stoma.”
Interested in coastal rowing? Read more about coastal rowing and other water sports courses and activities offered by Get up and go in Hampshire.