Atlantic Challenge Sponsors
Pete would like to thank all of the companies and individuals who have supported the Atlantic Solo Challenge Project. Without their help, assistance, advice, support, and motivation the project would not be possible. Hundreds of individuals have pledged their support - you can see them on the Wall of Support!
The following organizations are currently supporting The Challenge:
Business Objects (Gold Sponsor)
Business Objects are the world's leading BI software company. Their software helps organizations gain better insight into their business, improving decision-making and enterprise performance. As a Business Objects employee for 9 years, Pete is really grateful for the support Business Objects have provided him in his preparations for the row.
Business Objects have a fantastic history of getting involved in community focused and fund raising activities, and this has again been the case with the Atlantic Solo Challenge Project. Many of the funds raised for Alzheimer’s Australia have been as a direct result of the generosity of Business Objects employees. Learn more at: www.businessobjects.com
Ingres
Ingres Corporation is the worlds leading provider of business open source services and solutions for companies of all sizes. Ingres’s mission is to supply the market with the best services and solutions enabling information management at a price point that ensures customers, both large and small, realize benefits faster and at lower cost.
Ingres Australia is proud to support Pete we will be with him every stroke of the journey in his huge achievement. Learn more at: www.ingres.com
Iridium
Iridium is the only provider of truly global satellite voice and data communication solutions with complete coverage of the entire Earth including oceans, airways and even polar regions.Iridium delivers reliable, secure, real-time, mission-critical communications services to and from areas where landlines and terrestrial-based wireless services are either unavailable or unreliableThanks to Iridium, Pete can be confident that he will be able to stay in touch with everyone on terra firma throughout his voyage. Have a look at the Iridium website for more information: www.iridium.com
SLAM
Advanced Technology Sportswear. SLAM has long been extra attentive and sensitive to product innovation, to the extent that they have made hi-tech their vocation. They have preserved their original pioneering spirit, to constantly explore whatever is new and to continually strive to produce avant-garde materials and achieve an improvement in the quality of garments.SLAM Australia are ensuring that Pete has the most technically advanced clothing available for his Atlantic crossing. As conditions vary from the sublime to the extreme, he will be protected from the elements thanks to SLAM! See the latest range at: www.slamanz.com
Concept2/Sykes Racing
Concept2 Rowing are known especially as producers of the World's leading Indoor Rowing Machine - but they also manufacture other products for the Rowing and Fitness industries. They have provided Pete with a Concept 2 Model D indoor rowing machine. He is using this at home to help him prepare for the race.They also make the best oars in the business and have helped to kit the boat out with 3 pairs of Dressigacker Oars - With over 1,200,000 strokes to get to Antigua, it's reassuring to have the best equipment on board! More information about Concept 2 products can be found at www.concept2.com.au
GME
Since the early 1970s GME has been at the vanguard of marine electronics in the Australian region. The blending of hands-on experience with creative software engineering has produced a host of innovative GME Marine products including the world’s first VHF transceiver with totally integrated direct dial telephone facility, the compact size COSPAS/SARSAT compatible EPIRBs and the GR series of marine stereos. They all proudly bear the GME logo.All GME marine products undergo stringent testing to ensure they will provide years of trouble free service in the harsh marine environment. We are also sensitive to product aesthetics; our goal is to achieve a harmonious balance between good looks and practicality.GME/Garmin are helping Pete out with the latest EPIRB and VHF radio technology to ensure he has a safe crossing of the Atlantic. Read more about their range at www.gme.net.au
Antivia
Antivia is an innovator in information-centric hierarchy management and business intelligence 2.0 (BI 2.0) software solutions. Antivia Desktop, the framework upon which Antivia's range of BI 2.0 solutions is delivered, is designed to take full advantage of an organisation's existing investment in BusinessObjects and delivers a range of capabilities focused on enabling users to bring the power, flexibility and freedom of the next generation web to the business intelligence environment of today. Their information-centric hierarchy management solution, Scenario for BusinessObjects™, takes advantage of this framework and is designed to utilize the power of BusinessObjects XI to allow users to:* Manage the information hierarchies within their BusinessObjects reports* Manipulate hierarchies and instantly see changes on reports* Save hierarchies and re-apply them at any time to newer versions of documents * Share hierarchy ideas with other users in their communityHave a look at: www.antivia.com
PA Freight
Pete would like to thank Andrew Morris and the team at PA Freight who will be looking after the logistics of shipping Charmed Life to the starting line in La Gomera and then back to the UK from Antigua. PA Freight have a long standing relationship with ocean rowing and have successfully moved many boats around the globe to help the rowers dreams become a reality. Most ocean rowers only trust one company with this task and Pete is no different! They are based in the UK but have a global logistics network - www.pafreight.co.uk
Getaway Sailing Adventures
Getaway Sailing Adventures is a Sydney-based sailing and adventure school that specialises in making the sailing dreams of non-sailors and novices come true. Whether you want to race competitively, seek adventure on the high seas, or cruise in sheltered water, Getaway has something for you! They have supported Pete by helping him meet his training requirements, including – First Aid, Radio and Yachtmaster certifications which are essential for all ocean rowers.Get involved by visiting them at: www.getaway-sailing.com
TR Telecom
TR Telecom is leading the way in Satellite Telephony, Wireless Networking, Wireless Broadband and Cellular Mobility solutions. As part of the dynamic TR Corporation group of technology businesses, TR Telecom can provide service & solutions throughout Australasia.No matter where you are, or where you need to be, they have a wireless solution that allows you to connect people and systems, wirelessly. Offering products from leading manufacturers, their solutions are sound, tested and reliable.As Pete will need to stay in touch with both the race office, his shore crew and his wife during the race, it is imperative that he has the best communications equipment available. TR Telecom are ensuring that this is the case!For more information about satellite phones and TR Telecom, go to: www.trtelecom.com
Trimble
Trimble provides positioning solutions enabling professionals in engineering and construction, surveying, agriculture, fleet management and field service to be more productive by revolutionizing their work processes.Trimble have supplied Pete with the new Trimble® Recon® X-Series handheld computer which delivers maximum performance and reliability in a lightweight and extremely rugged design that's easy to carry. Featuring optional embedded Bluetooth and 802.11g wireless, the waterproof Recon weighs just 17 ounces, meets military specifications for drops, vibration, and both high and low temperature operation, and runs Windows Mobile 5.0. It is also waterproof and will allow Pete to access the Internet from the middle of the Atlantic - through his satellite phone. Being able to send e-mails and photos will allow supporters to track Pete's progress and this is only possible by having the latest cutting edge technology on board. Thanks to Trimble for their generosity and support. See the Recon at:www.trimble.com
Spectrum Communications
Spectrum Communications are one of Australia's leading IT public relations consultancies. They are helping Pete to promote the Atlantic Solo Challenge Project with the view to help him increase awareness of the campaign and the efforts to raise funds for Alzheimer's Australia The dynamic team at Spectrum have stepped away from their usual realm of IT public relations and are proving that a leopard really can change it's spots. Find out more about Spectrum at: www.spectrumcomms.com.au
Terminal Graphic Design
The Atlantic Solo Challenge website that you are currently visiting has been a vision in Pete's mind since the Atlantic Solo Challenge Project was born. Turning the vision into a reality and creating a site that would be both informative, easy to use and interactive was made possible by Stephen Richardson who is based in Vancouver, Canada. The site was created from scratch by Steve's company Terminal Graphic Design, and the result is (I hope you agree) fantastic. To support Alzheimer's Australia, this site was created by Steve in his spare time - a truly remarkable act of kindness! See more examples of Steves work at www.terminalgraphic.ca
Profiling Online
Profiling Online enterprise solutions deliver 360-degree assessment, individual learning and e-learning assessment, competency and position description management to global organisations in over 50 countries around the world. Profiling Online are supporting the Atlantic Solo Challenge Project. To find out more about what they do click on their web link: www.profilingonline.com
Mosman Rowing Club
The Mosman Rowing Club (MRC) is the home of still water rowing on the North Shore, and home of some of the best rowing water in Sydney. Coaches Tony Blay and Nick Garrett have helped Pete out enormously. MRC have helped Pete to get out training on the water and have given friendly advice about rowing technique, training and general fund raising. Without their help Pete’s preparation for the race would have been impossible. All the rowers and coaches have made Pete feel at home at the club and this has made his preparation much more enjoyable! Read more about this fantastic club at: www.mosmanrowing.com
Pelican Products Australia
One of the common problems faced by ocean rowers is how to protect certain pieces of equipment from the corrosive and destructive nature of the sea. Equipment like satellite phones, digital camera, video camera and first aid supplies all need to be kept in both a secure and dry place. Only one company came to mind for to meet this requirement - Pelican Products. Pelican Products Australia have kindly offered to supply Pete with a number of cases to hold medical and electrical equipment. Have a look at the range of Pelican Products that are available at: www.pelicanaustralia.com
Leichhardt Rowing Club
The Leichhardt Rowing Club (LRC) are supporting the Atlantic Solo Challenge project by hosting the sponsored "Row-A-Thon" which will be held on Sunday 16th September 2007. The architect designed clubhouse at LRC was completed in January 2002 and officially opened by the NSW Attorney General at the Club’s Annual Regatta on the 9th February 2002. Features of the new structure include the movement of all facilities to the upper floor, which includes a magnificent carpeted reception area and gymnasium facility. The expansive verandah provides an excellent viewing and entertainment area and the upper floor provides an ideal venue for daytime or evening functions. With LRC's support, this should be a fantastic event, raising lots of funds for Alzheimer's Australia. More information about the club and the facilities are available at: www.lrc.com.au
Cleghorn Waring
In 1953 Cleghorn Waring introduced JABSCO pumps to the UK market from America. They continue to be Europe's leading specialist JABSCO distributor and in 2007 are supporting the Atlantic Solo Challenge project. By providing Pete with the pumps and pump spares he will need to get Charmed Life ready for the race, Cleghorn Waring are a very valued supporter of the project. Rowing boats have a tendancy to take on a lot of water while on the open ocean and thanks to Cleghorn Waring Pete should be able to put any unwanted water back where it belongs - in the ocean!They specialise in both marine and industrial pumps and you can find out more at www.cleghorn.co.uk
SeaRug
SeaRugs are a warm, shower proof, drip dry blanket that are an absolute necessity for ocean racing. They retain body heat when it is cold, can be used as a sheet when it is hot, and are made of a shower proof but breathable fabric.Pete has used SeaRugs whilst racing up the east coast of Australia in the winter months and swears by their “magic properties”. He simply won’t set sail without one and is very grateful for the support of SeaRug on this trip. Contact Peter Howes at SeaRug: www.searug.com.au
Seafresh Desalinators
Seafresh have been designing and manufacturing desalinators or watermakers if you prefer, since the early eighties. Peter Snare and his team have helped Pete by servicing and fixing his desalinator for the race.Without a reliable way to produce fresh water for drinking, cooking and washing it is virtually impossible to complete the 5000km crossing, so Seafresh's help has been invaluable. Seafresh are based in Romsey on the south coast of England and operating across the globe, you can read more at: www.seafresh.co.uk
Skwoosh NZ
Skwoosh NZ are bringing relief to rowers and paddlers across Australiasia with their patented gel seat cushions. Originally only available in the USA, they are now available to order on-line from the team in New Zealand.Sitting on a rowing seat for 12 hours a day for up to 120 days has proven to be unbearably uncomfortable for other ocean rowers. Thanks to Skwoosh NZ, Pete is looking forward to a much more comfortable trip. If you row or paddle and would like to experience the bliss of sitting on a Skwoosh cushion, grab one today at: www.skwooshnz.co.nz
Para Anchor
Mother Nature is unforgiving. For ultimate survival at sea Para-Anchors Australia manufactures a range of sea surface anchors to suit all ocean going vessels. The team at Para-Anchors have been involved in many previous ocean rowing projects and are helping Pete out with advice and guidance to ensure that when the weather turns against him he is prepared to face it. www.paraanchors.com.au
Fleetwater Marine & Sea Pack
Fleetwater Marine is a leading provider of next-generation forward osmosis water filtration and desalination technology based on a proprietary membrane that converts almost any polluted water into safe, potable drink.They have donated one of their state of the art SeaPacks for Pete to take with him on his crossing. SeaPack is the world's first osmotic seawater desalination kit. Intended for emergency use, the SeaPack desalination kit produces a life-saving drink directly from seawater. Perfect for use on your off shore boat, sea kayak or for use in your life raft. The filtered drink is very similar to the juice from pressed grapes and provides 480 calories from each half liter - an important energy source during emergencies. The tight osmotic membrane rejects a full 97% of the salt. Hopefully Pete won't need to use this piece of kit, but he needs to be prepared for the worst and as such Fleetwater Marine's support is greatly appreciated. Read more at: www.fleetwatermarine.com
NASA Marine Instruments Ltd
NASA Marine Instruments have become known worldwide for manufacturing robust, reliable products that are superb value for money. Pete will be taking both an AIS receiver and a GPS repeater on board Chamed Life. See the equipment section for more information and their website for more product details: www.nasamarine.com
Newark Marina
The entire team at Newark Marina (near Nottingham in the UK) have supported Pete since he first started preparing Charmed Life for the row. With previous experience building 2 ocean rowing boats, they have been one of Pete's most consistent supporters. James and the team have offered Pete answers and solutions to all of his questions and problems whilst the changes have been made to Charmed Life in the lead up to her new life as a solo boat. Newark Marina is an oasis for boat owners and is situated on the River Trent in the middle of the UK. Their website is: www.newark-marina.co.uk
Marine and Technical Services
Kevin Wells at Marine and Technical Servcies based in Newark, England has prepared and reviewed the electrics for Pete's boat - Charmed Life. Pete is very grateful for all of the help that Kevin has provided in the lead up to the race. As well as ensuring that all of the complex electrics are installed and functional, Kevin has also invented a new steering mechanism for the boat to ensure that Pete stays on track. Kevin and his family took Pete under their wing on his last trip to the UK and their kindness and support will be remembered as he rows across.
DME GRP
Pete would like to thank Dave Dickinson at Newark Marina for all of his help as the master builder of Charmed Life over the last 9 months. Dave (and his colleague Danny) have taken Charmed Life and reinforced, repaired, customised, painted and updated her to the point that she looks like a brand new boat. Dave's tireless support and assistance has been absolutely invaluable and has turned the ocean rowing dream into a reality for Pete.
Kayospruce
Kayospruce are the exclusive distributors in the UK for Challenge Sailcloth and Cuban Fiber from the U.S.A., and are also the favoured supplier to Sailmakers and Cover makers with a huge range of Marine and Technical fabrics suitable for sailing Yachts and Boats. Acrylic and Polyester, Dacron, Canvas, Nylon and other materials. Ian Dawson has kindly donated high tech marine fabrics and fastners to cover the rowing seats on Charmed Life. Spending 12 hours a day for months on end, sat on a rowing seat would be unbearable, so Pete has used this fabric (sewed together by his Mum!) to create a highbred seat design that incorporates the Skwoosh cushion mentioned above. You can visit Kayospruce at: www.sailcloth.co.uk
Innovative Epoxy Solutions
Innovative Epoxy Solutions have launched an emergency repair kit in the event of a collision or water ingress whilst afloat. Although it will be extremely interesting to all Ocean Racing Yachtsmen, it is equally valuable as an emergency back up for all Coastal and Inland Waterway users, removing the need for possible expensive lift outs. As Pete will need to make running repairs himself at sea, this is a great piece of kit and he is pleased to be carrying one on board. See the kit and read more at EIS's website: EIS and Kollision Kit Website
Raymond Sims Limited
Ray Sims is a figure head in the global rowing community and is at the cutting edge of rowing boat design and production in the UK. Ray is supporting the Atlantic Solo Challenge by providing Pete with rowing shoes and runners for Charmed Life. Visit his website at: www.rowing.co.uk
Oakley Sunglasses
Why settle for anything other than the very best? Pete is pleased to be wearing the latest in optical technology from the leaders in sunglass design and innovation - Oakley.He has chosen to wear both the Polarized Radar Pitch and Polarized Water Jacket models to protect his eyes from the fierce tropical sun. See the latest Oakley range at: www.oakley.com.au
Leeds Metropolitan University
Professor Roderick King at the Leeds Metropolitan University has been working with Pete to ensure that he has the correct dietary supplements on his crossing. Racing under such extreme conditions can lead to dehydration and this can have a massive impact on physical and mental well being.Following a visit to the university in September 2007, Pete has now got a better understanding of how to control his hydration and energy levels and will be putting this new found knowledge to the test when he starts the crossing in December. The following web link gives a bit more information about Professor Rod and his work: Click here for more information
Hire Intelligence
Hire Intelligence provides short term computer rentals & long term rent, hire & lease solutions for computer equipment, notebook, laptop, printer, projector, scanner, plasma, equipment & office equipment in Sydney, Canberra, Adelaide, and throughout Australia. Hire Intelligence are supporting Alzheimer's Australia and the Atlantic Solo Challenge, by providing state of the art entertainment equipment for fund raising events in 2007. If you need to rent, hire or lease any of the equipment mentioned above, visit them at: www.hire-intelligence.com.au
Boat Books Australia
Boat Books Australia is more than just a nautical bookshop. Including books, videos and computer software they offer an invaluable resource to both the professional sailor and the recreational boating enthusiast covering topics from boat building to specialist Australian waters cruising guides. Boat Books Australia have helped Pete to get the charts required for the crossing as well as books on navigation and seamanship to ensure that he is fully prepared for his time at sea. Their website at www.boatbooks-aust.com.au makes it easy to find and buy any of their range of books and charts.
