2013 news rowtheamazon thenthereweretwo

Latest from the Amazon

4 October 2013

The article at a glance

And then there were two! The Amazon adventure has returned to its original configuration of two rowers as Dr Mark de Rond …

And then there were two! The Amazon adventure has returned to its original configuration of two rowers as Dr Mark de Rond and Anton Wright push on to the finish alone.

Anton and Mark

The latest from the boat is that Peruvian conservationist and adventurer Murilo Reis has departed following differences over how much and how long to stop and take in the sights. Mark’s latest blogs say the trip has pushed all three to their limits and the insights into organisational behaviour, which he wanted to uncover, are coming thick and fast!

Rowing in shifts 24/7, the men are currently in Brazil. So far, their biggest challenge has been battling through a massive three hour storm on Monday (30 September) that destroyed the rudder, broke two feet of the keel and carried off their on-board facilities – i.e. their bucket-toilet!

The adventure began in Peru on Friday 13 September when CJBS faculty member Mark, along with Anton of Clare College, took on the 2,077 mile river unsupported, in aid of the Leonard Cheshire Disability charity. Delays at customs allowed Mark and Anton to recruit a third team member and Murilo Reis came on board, bringing the team navigation expertise and local contacts.

Along with the challenges there are the compensations of stunning sunsets, pink dolphins and the support of friends, family, colleagues and an increasing army of fans around the world.