Row the Dart! A Day of Fun, Fitness, and Fundraising at The Fleet
On the 19th of November 2024, The Fleet Care Home was full of energy and excitement as residents, staff, and members of the local community came together for our highly anticipated Row the Dart event. We set out a challenge to 'row' the entire 75km (45 miles) length of the River Dart.
But in true Fleet spirit, we didn’t just stop at 75km… we doubled it! Thanks to incredible teamwork, determination, and support from all involved, we managed to row an unbelievable 150km, completing both the ‘out’ and ‘return’ legs of the journey. The event was a roaring success and far surpassed our original goal and was a great opportunity to raise money for Make-A-Wish while strengthening our ties with the community.
The day saw participants of all ages, from three to 94 years old, contributing to the impressive total. Residents were thrilled to take part, with many achieving distances they never thought possible. Collectively, our amazing residents contributed 2,198m to the total, with a special shout-out to Jennifer S, who rowed a staggering 982m! Christopher P, aged 94, showed us all how it’s done by rowing an impressive 209m, and our youngest rower, Freddie, aged three, added an adorable 410m to the tally.
Our staff team pulled together with an extraordinary contribution of 73,032m, proving that teamwork really does make the dream work. Families of residents, local organisations, and community groups joined in as well, including Team Dartmouth Medical Practice, Stoke Fleming Primary School, and the Dart Gig Club, whose standout member Alison rowed a phenomenal 44,375m! All in all, 29 participants made up the final total of 150,440m, more than double our original target.
Our staff also found the event to be incredibly rewarding, enjoying the chance to support each other and promote their own health and fitness while working towards a shared goal. The local community rallied around us, cheering participants on and helping us smash our ambitious target.
Celebrating the Day’s Highlights
- Youngest Rower: Freddie, aged 3, rowed 410m.
- Oldest Rower: Christopher P, aged 94, rowed 209m.
- Furthest Resident Row: Jennifer S rowed an incredible 982m.
- Biggest Contribution: Dart Gig Club’s Alison rowed an astounding 44,375m.
- Team Fleet Residents: Contributed a collective 2,198m.
- Community Contributions: Teams from local schools, businesses, and families came together to add thousands of metres to the final tally.
The day wasn’t just about the rowing—it was about the feeling of community, laughter, and encouragement. We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who made Row the Dart such an unforgettable day. From our residents and staff to the local community groups who joined in, every single metre rowed made a difference. Together, we’ve raised £265 for Make-A-Wish and shown what makes The Fleet such a special place: the strength of our community and the kindness of everyone in it.
Come and book a tour to check out our luxury care home for yourself as well as our first-class facilities and friendly team.
