AFTER a long wait - Topsham rower Dave Brooks has started his epic fundraising journey. The 23-year-old, having been delayed by bad weather, got his 13,000 mile challenge to row across the pacific and Atlantic oceans under way on Monday, January 4. He set

AFTER a long wait - Topsham rower Dave Brooks has started his epic fundraising journey.

The 23-year-old, having been delayed by bad weather, got his 13,000 mile challenge to row across the pacific and Atlantic oceans under way on Monday, January 4.

He set off from La Gomera in the Canary Islands as part of the Woodvale Atlantic Race, one of the world's toughest rowing competitions which features scores of participants taking part.

Dave, reflecting on the day he started the event, said: The race kicked off with a bang with nerves filling the air like I've never known.

"It was like 10 minutes before a cup final - multiplied by 1000, as everyone said their last goodbyes to families, and each other.

"I can honestly say that this delay has been a blessing, as not only is the fleet now the most prepared it could ever be, but we have all bonded and become great friends.

"I'm currently adjacent to El Hierro, the last piece of land I hope to see before the finish line.

"I have made steady progress of 1.5 - 2.5 knots whilst at the oars, and am at least drifting in more-or-less the right direction when I'm resting.