It was a busy Easter Weekend at First Network as we delivered two fabulous events for Cancer Research UK and the 162nd Boat Race. In an unprecedented move, key boat race sponsors BNY Mellon and Newton Investment Management had donated their headline sponsorship to Cancer Research UK.
The weekend kicked off with a glittering evening at London’s prestigious Hurlingham Club. More than 100 people turned out to support Cancer Research UK’s #TheGreatRow challenge; as part of a fundraising initiative which aims to raise vital funds for the charity’s life-saving research. The event brought together passionate fundraisers, including two celebrity teams, for a gruelling rowing challenge. The mixed teams of six competed to row a full 26.2 mile marathon distance in the fastest time. The race took place on indoor rowing machines overlooking the River Thames. First Network supplied a large format high resolution indoor LED wall, which displayed fundraising messages and tracked the teams’ progress throughout the race.
On Sunday we were right in the heart of the action at the race itself.
We provided LED display and audio, with live feed from the BBC at The London Rowing Club, Putney Bridge – the starting point for all the races. Former BBC newsreader, Bill Turnbull and Olympic Gold Medal Winner, James Cracknell gave a live commentary and analysis throughout the day. The race saw the Cambridge Mens’ Team claiming victory, putting an end to Oxford’s 3-year winning run.In the ladies’ race, though, Oxford were the clear winners. The Cambridge Team looked actually close to sinking at one point, struggling in very challenging conditions. A First Network team also ran a similar event at the Mortlake finish line.
CEO, Dennis Georgiou said: ‘We were delighted to have played a part in such a celebrated event, and in support of Cancer Research UK, such an important cause.’
Please visit cancerresearchuk.org/the-great-row to find out more about this fantastic initiative, and how your donation can help Cancer Research UK beat cancer sooner.