Rowing, riding and running for Finn

On Friday, 28 September, students from the King’s School Rowing Club (KSRC) competed in their annual charity triathlon, which took place entirely within the school grounds and saw the swimming leg replaced by rowing 1,000m on the ergo machines.

This year, the club was raising funds for two charities, Love Rowing and James’ Place.

James’ Place works to support men in suicidal crisis in London and the North West and was chosen as one of this year’s charities in memory of former student, Finn Abberton.

In 2017, the King’s School community was devasted by the untimely death of Finn who was a popular student and keen rower who attended King’s from J1 to Upper Sixth.

Director of Rowing, David Blackham, was delighted that so many students took part in the Triathlon. He said: “We are incredibly proud of our dedicated athletes who took on a challenging triathlon on Friday, September 29th, to support two important causes, James’ Place and Love Rowing.

“Teams spanning from J14 to J18 joined forces and showcased their teamwork and endurance.

“This achievement not only reflects the excellent athletic abilities of the participants but also their commitment to making a positive impact in our community.”

James Gray, Assistant Director of Rowing, also expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “It was truly inspiring to witness a large number of athletes in the club passionately supporting such a meaningful cause.

“The event was skilfully organised by the Upper Sixth executive team, spearheaded by Matthew Walker, Harry Weetch (Captains of Boats), and Aoife Mulholland (Girls’ Squad Captain).

“The dedication of our senior rowers not only energised the entire club but also fostered a strong sense of teamwork throughout the day.”

Mr Blackham used the opportunity to invite Finn’s Mum, Alex Abberton who works for James’ Place, to talk to students at the rowing club about the importance of looking out for themselves and each other, and for being able to ask for help when they need it.

He said: “Rowing brings people together but it is also highly competitive and it can feel very pressurised at times. I want our young athletes to use rowing to connect with each other, value each other and to keep an eye on each other.

“This is something Finn did without even really thinking about it. He represented the club with pride and passion, and he was a fine young man who made a difference to others.

“The students who competed on Friday didn’t know Finn personally but his legacy lives on at the club as each year, we award the Finn Abberton Medal for commitment, endeavour and hard work to a member of the senior rowing squad.”

This coming weekend, Finn’s Mum will be joining eight of Finn’s friends – all King’s School and Rowing Club alumni – on the starting line of the Chester Marathon.

She said: “I am incredibly touched that Finn’s friends are running the marathon in his memory and in aid of James’ Place.

“Finn ran the Chester Marathon ten years ago and I am joining them as I want to follow in his footsteps and help raise money for James’ Place in his name. It makes it very special to be able to do this with his friends and for our beloved son who continues to, and will always, inspire us all.”

The marathon team have set themselves an ambitious target of £7,500, which is the amount needed for James’ Place to support three men who are going through suicidal crisis.

To sponsor the “Running for Finn” team, please donate through their JustGiving page: https://www.justgiving.com/page/runningforfinn

To find out more about James’ Place and how they will use the money raised, please visit their website:  https://www.jamesplace.org.uk/