Rowing Abreast and Trent RC Shortlisted for National Award!
Our inspirational Rowing Abreast team, made up of ten local people affected by cancer, has been shortlisted for the ‘Rowing Project of the Year’ at the British Rowing Awards 2024!
From Newcomers to Regatta Racers
Rowing Abreast From newcomers to Regatta racers
Just last year, this group of nine women and one man, many from Burton-upon-Trent, Derby and nearby areas, embarked on something remarkable.
None of them had rowed before. All had been impacted by cancer, either directly or through loved ones. Together, they committed to the Rowing Abreast challenge: to learn to row, train for months, and compete in the Burton Regatta.
They smashed that goal, rowing a 1,100-metre course at one of the region’s most iconic rowing events, cheered on by the local community and raising a phenomenal £4,780 for Every Cloud, a Midlands-based cancer support charity.
The challenge was the vision of Ali Adams, from Mickleover, Derby. Ali, a breast cancer survivor, wanted to give back to the Every Cloud charity that supported her during treatment.
“I was looking for a challenge that matched the mental strength and determination it takes to face cancer,” she says. “With the encouragement of my niece, Team GB rower Olivia Bates, and the support of my doctor, rowing just made perfect sense.”
Ali’s doctor even said rowing was one of the best sports for recovery after a mastectomy—perfect for rebuilding strength and mobility.
The full Rowing Abreast team includes Sharon, Andi, Kim, Amy, Chandree, Amy, Alyssum, Rachel and Jon, aged from their 30s to early 60s. Every one of them brought a unique story and strength to the boat. Together, they trained week after week on the River Trent, pushing through personal and physical challenges with passion and positivity.
Our very own James Russell, who volunteered to coach the team, shared his thoughts:
“I am so proud of the courage and determination shown by every single member of the Rowing Abreast crew. Learning to row is no small feat—especially while recovering from cancer. Their achievements are nothing short of phenomenal.”
“Several of the crew have continued rowing, even taking part in indoor and outdoor competitions. Their message is powerful, and I can’t think of more deserving award winners.”
The British Rowing Awards ceremony takes place on Thursday 25 January, and win or lose, we already know this team are champions. They’ve brought new people into our sport, raised funds for an incredible cause, and shown what rowing is truly about—strength, support, and community.
#RowingForRecovery #CancerSurvivors #TeamTrent #BurtonRegatta #BritishRowing #LearnToRow #WomenWhoRow #RowingAbreast
