The Team

Simon Evans-37 years old.
I have lived in Swansea, South Wales since birth. I grew up in the Mumbles area then moved to Brynmill in 2004 due to an expanding family. There, I live with my partner Michelle and between us 4 children.
I left school at the age of 17 to join the Army, serving 4 years with the Royal Engineers. My decision to leave the Army was fuelled by the ambition to become a Fire-fighter, although this wouldn't happen for a further 3 years. During this time I worked in an Operating Theatre at the local hospital. I was however, finally successful and became a Fire-fighter in 1996, and have now been doing this to date. I currently work as a Crew Manager at Morriston Fire Station in Swansea.
I have some experience of the sea, having grown up on the Gower peninsular surfing was a regular past time. As soon as I was able to I joined the Mumbles Lifeboat Crew, there I served for 14 years until commitments meant having to leave the catchment area. I have also been a volunteer working on the Jubilee Sailing Trusts 'Lord Nelson'.
My personal fitness is very important to me, not only as a requirement for my job but more importantly to enable a healthy life style. I maintain this by using the gym, hill walking, running and of course rowing.
The Atlantic row will undoubtedly be the toughest challenge I have faced, having to cross not just the Atlantic Ocean, but both major physiological and psychological barriers. My motivation and strength comes from the hope that my involvement in this will provide inspiration not only to my family, friends and colleagues but to all involved. Most importantly I hope to raise awareness and the much needed support in the form of charitable funds for our nominated charity, (The Fire-fighters Charity).
To do this will be no easy task; we (mike and I) look for your support to ensure that together we can provide support and make the difference to those who are less fortunate than our selves.

Mike Arnold-39 years old.
Born and bred in the Swansea area, currently living in Pennard. I am married to Alison and have two beautiful daughters age 4 and 2.
I joined Shropshire Fire and Rescue service in 1997 and served there for 5 years., whilst living in Shrewsbury. I transferred in to South Wales Fire Service in 2002 after serving at Maesteg, and Bridgend stations, and finally the training department until 2004. Since then I have served with Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service and am currently a watch Manager at Pontardawe.
I have been involved with the sea all of my life, whether it be through surfing, boats or simply time at the beach. Why would I even entertain the idea of rowing an ocean? Put simply, 'Challenge'.
The reason I joined the Fire and Rescue Service is now the very reason I want to push myself further than ever before, mentally and physically. Taking myself out of the comfort zone and in to a challenge of this nature is a life long ambition and an excellent opportunity to raise funds for a worthy charity.