Published: Tuesday, 5th May, 2009 9:00am

70 days on the high seas for rowing duo

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TWO novice rowers are nearly three weeks into their epic attempt to conquer the Indian Ocean for charity.

James Thysse from Odell Close, Lower Earley, and his friend Jamie Facer-Childs from Maidenhead expect the 3,600 mile race from Geraldton in Western Australia to the island of Mauritius to take about 70 days. They are so far managing around 120 miles every five days.

The brave duo had never manned an oar in their lives before taking the decision to compete, and now are rowing 24 hours a day in two-hour shifts, virtually naked so that the salt water does not chafe their skin under clothes. They have had a good-luck message from Olympic swimming star Rebecca Adlington, who said: "Some 4,000 miles with up to 80 days in a boat under your own power is unimaginable - and you are both only 21-years-old! I wish you all the best for the race."

They have had rigorous safety training, including first aid lessons, radio training, and celestial navigation in case their GPS technology fails. They have also had sea survival lessons, and have an inflatable life raft with them on their £14,000, seven-metre (23ft) boat. To follow their journey or donate, visit: www.oz2africa.com

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