Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge sees 3,000-mile adventure by foursome in memory of late friend

It promises to be the adventure of a lifetime – and a test of togetherness and stamina that few dare to try. 

But four intrepid rowers, who are preparing to brave 3,000 miles of the Atlantic, will have all the motivation they need when they think of their friend, Oli Hilsdon, who died at the age of 26 from a brain tumour. 

The quartet are taking part in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge in December. Setting off from La Gomera in the Canaries and, all being well, ending up in Antigua within 40 days.

The Atlantic Endeavoar team features Louis Cruysmans, Olly Collins, Will Hole and Henry Putt, who will be one of 40 crews taking part. 

Louis, 28, is based at Tooting Bec Gardens, Tooting, Olly, 31, lives in Troutbeck Road, Peckham and Henry, 28, is of Webb’s Road, Clapham Junction. Team-mate Will, 31, is based in Buckingham, where their late friend was from.

The four will work in pairs, two on and two off, to keep their vessel on its round-the-clock voyage. They expect to encounter storms, blisters and mechanical issue along the way. 

Henry is under no illusions about the task ahead, and the organisation that is going into it. 

He said: “Given the scale of the challenge, there is a lot to do across a number of areas. Physical and skills training, sourcing sponsorship, as well as charity fundraising. 

“On the physical side, I am in the gym or on the rowing machine four to five times a week to build a good cardiac base, and the strength endurance required.  

“On top of that, we are looking to accumulate more than 200 hours’ training on our boat down in Weymouth before the race start – generally getting used to spending extended periods of time on the boat. 

“We are also completing a number of courses covering sea survival, first aid and technical skills to make sure we are well-prepared for life on the ocean.” 

The trip is costing an estimated £100,000 for equipment and food costs involved and the team aims to raise £150,000 for two causes, the Oli Hilsdon Foundation and mental health charity Mind. 

The Foundation was set up in memory of their friend, who died in 2019. It funds research into treatment for the condition Oli suffered from. 

“Oli was a close friend of the team. His story and the opportunity to support such an important charity is a real source of inspiration for us,” Henry said. 

“His memory will be a massive inspiration for us on the crossing, it’s a big motivation to know that we are supporting a great cause much bigger than ourselves.”

The team have put together sponsorship packages which they hope businesses will sign up for. They can be contacted via www.atlanticendeavoar.com or via email: atlanticendeavoar@gmail.com  

Pictured top: The Fab Four (left to right): Louis, Olly, Will and Henry (Pictures: Henry Putt)