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Wormit man completes
charity rowing challenge
David Winch sets off on his rowing challenge
AN intrepid Wormit cancer survivor who took on a rowing challenge to help other patients has more than doubled his fund-raising target.
David Winch (72) aimed to raise £1000 when he set off on the 12-mile journey between Newburgh and Wormit in order to help fund a programme that helps men with cancer benefit from physical activity.
But he ended up raising £2236 - and the figure is still rising.
David, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer, carried out similar rowing challenges after recovering from heart by-pass surgery 10 years ago, a feat he says he could not have achieved had it not been for the classes he takes at the Dundee Institute of Sport and Exercise.
ACTIVE
The money raised by his latest challenge will help pay for a programme being developed by the ISE’s active living co-ordinator Hazel Ednie and cancer specialist Dr Anna Campbell that will support men with prostate and other cancers in becoming more physically active.
The programme will also include research into the benefits of physical activity for cancer patients and an evaluation of the impact it can have on their quality of life.
On the day of the challenge, David set off along the Tay on his boat ‘Timbers Too’ in near perfect conditions, with a light westerly breeze to help him along.
“Progress was relatively slow until the tide began to pick up in my favour,” he said.
“The waves were small but occasionally I managed to surf a wave for several strokes before it overtook me.
“I stopped three times during the row for a drink of water and a bite of a banana to keep me going.
“My only real problem was with the sliding seat which at one point was making a noise like a bleating sheep.
“It did settle down but was not its usual smooth self and was probably making me work harder than usual.
BLISTERS
“Towards the end I felt blisters beginning to form on my right hand.
“Fortunately they were slight and within hours after the row were barely sore.
“I really felt the tide under me as I went through the railway bridge a mile from the finish and eventually when I landed at Wormit pier I was delighted with the small crowd of supporters who had taken the trouble to provide a welcome.”
Added David: “I am extremely pleased to have been able to complete the challenge and I know that the funds raised will make a difference to cancer survivors.
“I would like to thank everyone who has played any part at all in supporting me.”
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Weather for Kirkcaldy
Monday 20 May 2013
Today
Light showers
Temperature: 8 C to 20 C
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