The unique two-person rowing team is made up of ex-prison officer Sean Phelps and ex-prisoner James Brooke. The rowing adventure will take place in December 2025 with the duo travelling from Gran Canaria to Barbados. They are aiming to raise funds for two charities including Care after Combat and The Samaritans.
At the age of 27, James found himself within the justice system where he met Sean who he credits for playing a large role in his rehabilitation. Sean spotted James’ rowing potential and introduced the Concept2 rowing machine into his life.
Upon release in 2019, James built on his prison catering experience and rediscovered his passion for food by securing employment in a fine dining establishment.
James said: "From igniting flames as a child to mastering the art of fire in the kitchen for over 20 years, my chef career has been a thrilling journey with heat and passion. I'm keen to inspire anyone of any age to be open-minded to a career in the culinary arts, as a mind once stretched by an original idea never regains its original shape."
The row could take six to 12 weeks, with the team being away over Christmas and New Year in 2025. Their row has been organised by New Ocean Wave, an organisation enabling veterans to undertake ocean rowing.
Care after Combat ensures that no veteran faces their challenges alone, helping them to rebuild their lives with ‘dignity and pride’. The Samaritans provides emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope or at risk of suicide, receiving a call for help every ten seconds.
As well as raising money for two charities, the duo are on another mission to prove that change is ‘absolutely possible’ as Sean helped James to turn his life around after being in prison. Sean became a prison officer in 2006 and after two years he moved roles to be a PE Officer in the gym, which is where he met James.
Sean realised the importance of sport for not only the wellbeing of offenders, but also for how the prisoner would engage better with their peers and staff as a result. He knew that through the power of sport and the associated mental resilience, offenders really could turn their lives around.
Changing Tides are on a mission to ‘highlight the fact that adversity can be a catalyst for personal growth and transformation, and that with the right support and determination, change is absolutely possible’.
Sean commented: "I’m excited to be embarking on this incredible adventure of rowing the Atlantic with James. I couldn't ask for a better teammate by my side. We’re ready to face the challenges ahead and create unforgettable memories together. We're actively seeking sponsorship to support our mission, as well as media opportunities to increase our reach - to discuss, you can contact us on changingtidesrow@gmail.com."