Brian Verlaan
Brian's Mission RASI page
Fundraising for The Mission To Seafarers
Story
Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.
Mission RASI involves two replica 19th century Cornish Pilot Gig boats being rowed over 140km, taking on the seas and shipping lanes (not to mention two live military firing ranges) to complete a non-stop circumnavigation of the island of Singapore. The event itself will be held during the 50th anniversary year of Singapore’s independence and coincides with Singapore Maritime Week on 22 April 2015. We think it will take around 24 hours to complete the challenge.
This is my latest crazy challenge post-Ironman - we have been training hard for months both on and off the water and I've found aching muscles in places I didn't know I had!My late uncle Jos was a Dutch seafarer. Sadly, I didn't have the opportunity to ask if he personally experienced the generosity of the Mission. However, I am sure he had friends who did, and as a passionate storyteller he would undoubtedly have had good things to say about the Mission during his time at sea.
He sadly passed away doing one of the things he loved most - rowing. So, it is a fitting tribute to him that I pick up where he left off - in a boat with an oar in my hands.
As one of the oldest rowers, I also share a birthday with Singapore - celebrating my half-century within a week of our big day. So, what better way to mark the occasion than being part of this unique fund-raising event? My late uncle always spoke fondly of his visits to Singapore and I am sure he would be very proud of what we set out to achieve.
The event is being funded by all of us rowers and some generous seed sponsors, so all of the money we raise will go directly to The Mission to Seafarers. Our combined target is S$750,000 so please donate what you can - every penny or cent will make a difference.
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.