James Blake / rower
At 26-years-old, James Blake is a young man in search of adventure. Based in Dunedin and studying Masters in Science Communication and Natural History film-making, Blake has already competed in the Sydney to Hobart yacht race, but believes the Trans Tasman Row will be “a challenging expedition” that will push him to his limits.
Rob Hamill / non-rower
New Zealand ocean rowing stalwart, Rob "Robbie" Hamill, is the team director and shore manager (non-rower). Rob is best known as the winner of the inaugural rowing race across the Atlantic ocean in 1997 and author of the book about it all - ‘The Naked Rower'. In his rowing heyday, Rob competed in the 1996 Olympic games, won a world championship silver medal and set an indoor rowing world record to boot. Learn more about Rob.
Nigel Cherrie / rower & team leader
Nigel Cherrie, 35, is a keen offshore sailor, windsurfer and former cycle courier who brings his experience in boating, project management to club level rowing to the four man team. As Team Leader, Nigel has taken a year's sabbatical leave to organise the campaign.
Andrew McCowan / rower
Andrew "Axe" McCowan is the most accomplished oarsman in the team, competing in the Gallagher Great Race a record five times, winning twice at team captain. Andrew is also a multiple national rowing champ and top sportsman. The Trans-Tasman row is his opportunity to test his mental and physical abilities in an unfamiliar environment - the open ocean. Learn more about Andrew