Claire, Nadine, Debbie and Sam became friends whilst rowing in the same crew, for Brixham gig rowing club. The rowing club members have regularly fundraised for the Muscular Dystrophy charity (MD UK). It’s a charity close to Sam's heart, as her son was born with

Congenital muscular dystrophy (CMD). 

There are also other club members' friends and family who have been affected by muscular conditions, supported by the charity. 

Sam's son Alfie, was a bright and happy little boy who loved to play with his toy trains and watch his favourite tv programme, Pointless. Sadly, he passed away aged 4 years old, in 2015. The charity MD UK funds, and helps to coordinate research projects into treatments and cures for a vast range of conditions including CMD. They help in many other ways too, such as providing important information about rare conditions to families, medical professionals and schools so that others like Alfie, can be kept safe and supported.

When Claire and Nadine saw the Pedal Paddle Peak event advertised, they knew it would be the perfect fundraiser and challenge!! Having trained hard throughout the winter for the World Gig Rowing Championships held in April, they were looking for the next event to test their fitness and determination. Debbie hasn’t ridden a bike since she was 10 years old, and Nadine and Sam have both had limited time on a bicycle over the past 20 years. 

“We’re hoping the canoe section will be more familiar, being on the water, although the technique will be very different. If you would like to sponsor our team called 'Pedal Paddle Puke!', no amount is too small and all donations are very gratefully received. We will provide our sponsors with training updates and more information about the charity, including how the donations will be put to great use.”