Shropshire soldier and army pals achieve dream of becoming first military trio to row an ocean

Robert Cross, Robert Treasure - who is originally from Shropshire - and Charles Newman, who together form TEAM V3NTURE, have landed in Antigua after spending 40 days crossing the Atlantic Ocean in a rowing vessel.

To date, more people have travelled to space or climbed Mount Everest than have rowed an ocean - although those who have include several remarkable Shropshire groups such as the Atlantic Ladies and the Wrekin Rowers. 

TEAM V3NTURE were competing in a 3,000-mile race known as the ‘World’s Toughest Row’.

Departing from La Gomera on December 11, they have now finally completed their enormous challenge to reach Antigua.

Despite battling brutal headwinds, strong currents, and Saharan dust, the team has emerged victorious as the winning boat in the trio category.

This incredible journey has been in the aid of a greater cause - the teams' efforts have so far raised an incredible £100,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support, with an additional £20,000 ring-fenced for their Regiments’ three charities. 

Donations are still being accepted to help TEAM V3NTURE reach their fundraising goal. 

The team's efforts have drawn the attention of Prince William, who shared his support in a personal letter, writing: "It is fantastic to hear that you are fundraising for such worthy causes, not least The Welsh Guards Charity, and want to offer my heartfelt appreciation for your efforts.”

Three years ago, Robert Treasure experienced the heartbreaking loss of his father, Stephen, to cancer.

He was taken to the Renton Unit in Hereford, an outpatient facility run entirely by Macmillan, which cares for patients with various kinds of cancer, including those requiring specialist palliative care.

Unfortunately, Stephen passed away before his family could bring him home, but the care and dedication of the Macmillan nurses left a lasting impression on his son. 

He said: “If we can support them and the work they do – that’s a huge privilege and opportunity, and we’d like to make the most of it.”

Of the challenges the team faced, heat and exhaustion were perhaps the worst.

Harsh conditions even put them in the odd position of celebrating being caught in the pouring rain.

That rare bout of freshwater cleared some of the salt that risked damaging their boat, as well as irritating their skin.

Nonetheless, in high spirits, the trio celebrated in style with their regular 'Hawaiian Shirt Fridays'.

The three friends said they are incredibly proud and humbled by the amount raised, knowing that Stephen Treasure’s memory will continue to inspire and make a meaningful difference through their efforts.