Derek Holland, teacher of Geography and LLW and Head of Rowing at Enniskillen Royal Boat Club will do a 2K live on the Club’s Facebook page on 16th May to raise much needed funds for Action Mental Health and RNLI based in Enniskillen and Carrybridge
Derek said in an article on Action Mental Health’s website “This is the first time that I have had a break from rowing for over 35 years. I have been coaching for the last 15 years, which has left me with little time for myself to stay active and healthy as coaching, teaching and my family take priority.
“So, now that I’m not coaching I have set aside 90 minutes each day to start getting active again. I have set myself a challenge of doing a 2km race on the rowing machine and whilst doing it raise some money for Action Mental Health and also the RNLI. Action Mental Health worked with the club last year, doing workshops with the kids and the parents and it is a way of thanking the charity.”
Erne Head of the River simply couldn’t go ahead every year without the help of the RNLI so it is a great opportunity to thank them also for their support over the years.
Derek said he hopes his rowers – children aged from 13 and 18 who he coaches at ERBC – will tune in on the day to cheer him along, not in person, but in spirit, from home.
“This would have been our busy period of racing and the kids have trained all winter for it, so it’s very disappointing for them currently as it looks like no racing will take place this spring or summer.
“Keeping up the training from home will be good for them as it continues the structure and will also help their mental health, as they understand and come to terms with the situation we currently find ourselves in.”
Derek is mindful that many people may be finding the current pandemic difficult, financially, but is hopeful of raising £2000 for the 2 charities.
If you would like to donate you can use the link below. Many thanks to everyone who has already contributed.
