Phil Craze

When Phil's brother suffered a stroke at the age of 37 it turned his family's world upside down. Like many people they hadn't fully appreciated how many young people are affected by stroke each year. While Phil supported his brother in his recovery he became determined to do something to help other stroke survivors and to raise awareness of stroke. He decided to take on a truly momentous fundraising challenge, of Olympic proportions. He rowed solo for 24 hours, covering 313,248m (195miles, the equivalent of Edinburgh to John O'Groats). In the process he broke the overall world record for indoor rowing and the British record. Sir Steve Redgrave said, "Over the years I have spent a lot of time on rowing machines. I have done all sorts of challenges but this has all been as part of a team. The longest time I have done individually is 100 minutes. I would never consider doing a 24hr solo challenge. This would be tough both mentally and physically." Phil managed to raise a staggering £9,000 which was split between The Stroke Association and the MS Society (his Mother in Law has been living with the condition for over 20 years and Phil also wanted to show his support and love for her.) Phil is a remarkable man with a determined and unrelenting character who embodies the terms 'inspirational' and 'personal best'. His strength of mind and personality saw him through his challenge and he would be an outstanding ambassador for the spirit of the Olympics.