INTERNATIONAL. The Moodie Davitt Report has signed up as a Gold Sponsor of an extraordinary mission to raise funds for awareness about depression.
Isaac Giesen, a young New Zealander (and son of well-known wine company owner Theo Giesen), has set his sights on being the first Kiwi to row solo across the Atlantic Ocean.
All funds raised will be split between three causes dedicated to combating depression in New Zealand and Australia – a major cause of suicides. They are Black Dog Institute, Bravehearts and Victim Support Manaaki Tāngata.
Isaac is competing in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge, known as the world’s toughest row, in his 7m boat, Bonnie Lass. On the morning of Tuesday 12 December 2017, Isaac will set off from the Canary Islands towards the Caribbean on the challenge of his life.
[Click on the YouTube icon to hear Isaac Giesen talk about why he is taking on the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge]
As a Gold Sponsor, The Moodie Davitt’s logo will appear on the hull and cabin of Bonnie Lass and on all expedition and fundraising t-shirts.
We also plan to bring our readers regular live updates from Isaac’s crossing.
The Moodie Davitt Report Chairman Martin Moodie said: “Depression is one of the darkest illnesses yet despite being so prevalent is one that is not talked about nearly enough. Those who suffer the ‘black dog’ of depression experience intense emotions of anxiety, hopelessness, negativity and helplessness. Suicide, as I know from my own family’s experience, is sometimes the result.
“Isaac’s courage in taking on such a colossal challenge to help the fight against depression is immense. We are delighted to support him and hope that others in the travel retail community will too.”
Isaac Giesen said: “It was in the water I found the strength to overcome the pain of losing my Aunty and two close friends to suicide within a few years of each other. Now it could be up to 90 days I spend at sea, alone. No sails. No engine. No-one to share the journey with. The solitude might seem overwhelming, but my discomfort will only be short lived. Because for people who suffer from depression, there is often no finish line. That’s why I’m rowing to raise money for the fight against depression.”
To support Isaac Giesen please visit http://thebluerower.com/ or e-mail Nick Giesen, Isaac’s campaign manager, at thebluerower@gmail.com
ABOUT THE TALISKER WHISKY ATLANTIC CHALLENGE
The idea of the Atlantic Challenge race came to Sir Chay Blyth while he was rowing the Atlantic Ocean in 1966 with John Ridgeway. It was a 92-day battle against hurricanes, 50-foot waves and near starvation.
No outside assistance is permitted throughout the race. Apart from the use of a water maker, collection of rainwater and fishing, no boat shall receive any re-supplies of food, drink or equipment during the race.
