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Search forRowers to take on toughest challenge
Wednesday, December 03, 2008, 14:59
Phil Pring and Ben (Skippy) Cummings will spend six weeks struggling to stay out of the path of giant container ships as they row through major shipping lanes in a 3,000-mile trans-Atlantic race.
The adventurers will compete against international teams next December when they set off from the Canaries bound for English Harbour in Antigua.
They know the risks but say the adventure is too tantalising to resist.
"More often than not killer whales will pass you by because they're too intelligent to mistake you for food," said Phil.
"But every once in a blue moon they attack and there's nothing you can do.
"It's going to be a tough six weeks but the thought of being out there in the middle of the ocean battling against other teams is a challenge we are determined to face." Phil, who was born in Penzance, and Falmouth-based Skippy, are hand-building their 24ft plywood boat.
Vision of Cornwall is expected to be painted in Cornwall's gold and black colours and will raise funds for Cornwall Institute for the Blind.
Penzance Leisure Centre has offered free gym membership to help them train and clothing company Seasalt has provided clothing for the journey.
● To find out more, visit www.visionofcornwall.co.uk
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