John sets 5,000m national rowing record for charity – aged 95!

A dedicated supporter of local charity Care for Kids North Devon has raised more than £1,000 and set a new national record rowing 5,000 metres in 34 minutes – at the age of 95!

John Matthews completed the indoor row challenge in 34 minutes, 25 seconds at TM Gym in Barnstaple and is now the fastest rower in his age group for 95 to 99-year-olds in the online Concept 2 rowing records for this season.

John is the oldest member of TM Gym, at the Old Ice Factory next to the Fairview car park in Barnstaple. On Wednesday, September 17 he was joined by gym buddies, friends and his grandson Angelo, as he took on his remarkable rowing challenge.

He has already raised more than £1,300 via his JustGiving page and in sponsorship, but is hoping more people will make a donation to the charity, which provides financial support to families of children with life threatening illnesses and carries out projects at North Devon District Hospital children’s ward.

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John’s grandson and trustee of Care for Kids, Angelo, said: “I’m so proud of granddad, he really pushed himself and completed his row in a brilliant time. He is an amazing man and an inspiration to us all.

“Thanks to Lawrence and Amber at TM Gym and all his friends for their encouragement. I’m just wondering what his next challenge will be!”

Above: John Matthews taking on his 5,000 metre rowing challenge for Care for Kids North Devon, supported by his gym friends at TM Gym in Barnstaple. Credit: Care for Kids

If you would like to sponsor John and donate to Care for Kids North Devon, you can do so at https://www.justgiving.com/page/john-matthews-1

More information about the charity can be found at www.careforkidsnorthdevon.org.uk or follow the charity on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

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