University of Northampton throws down oar-some challenge for Sport Relief

Students and staff from the University of Northampton are set to tackle a 2,020-mile rowing challenge to raise cash for Sport Relief.

The university has signed up for the Row Britannia challenge, which sees universities and colleges across the UK try to complete the 2,020-mile feat before the deadline of Friday, March 13.

Rowing machines will be located at Waterside Campus, from Monday, February 17, with staff, students, visitors and the general public encouraged to complete a mile’s row in return for a minimum £1 donation.

It is hoped the nationwide challenge will raise £1.5m for Sport Relief, which will use the money to support mental health charities.

Dr Peter Jones, associate dean of the Faculty of Arts, Science and Technology, said: “We are challenging students, including their sports teams, staff and visitors to the university to complete a mile for Row Britannia.

“To put it into perspective, the 2,020-mile target distance is the equivalent of rowing from Northampton to Iceland and back, so it’s a huge challenge, but I’m confident we’ll smash it and raise much-needed funds for Sport Relief charities.”

The rowing machines will be located at the Students’ Union area, near the main entrance of the Learning Hub, Waterside Campus, from 10am on Monday, February 17.

Participants can turn up and complete their mile, or book a slot by visiting the rowing area. They can donate cash in person, or via the JustGiving page.

Find out more on the Row Britannia website.