Falklands rowing challenge for SSAFA

13 June 2023

Mark Lane, from Doncaster, who serves in the RAF and is currently based at RAF Waddington, found himself on the Falkland Islands with some free time on his hands. He promptly set about raising money for SSAFA by organising a virtual row around the islands. 

Mark was on a Catering and Rations (colloquially known as a Cat and Rat) flight onto the islands for a four month deployment.

Mark said: “I wanted a challenge myself whilst I was there so I decided to do the rowing challenge. I have heard that SAFFA does lots of wonderful things for people in the military, past and present, so wanted to help a good cause.”

Mark and his friends raised over £500 for the charity, which helps service personnel, veterans and their families in times of need. They rowed indoors, on rowing machines, instead of on the high sea because the water surrounding the islands is too dangerous. Each team member covered 165 miles each.

Mark said: “It was hard work but worth it in the end. I didn’t think I could get it done, but with the help of my friends we managed to get the miles in. It was so worth it!”