OCA NEWS Record Breaking Rower Inspires 29.12.2021
In October Collyer’s welcomed Alumni Ambassador Guy Watts back to the college. During a chat-show style session, hosted by Deputy Principal Steve Martell, students heard about how Guy and fellow athlete, Andrew Delaney, achieved the first tandem row across the Indian Ocean, aboard the Flying Ferkins, between 19 April and 30 July 2009, to gain a place in the Guinness World Records!
The students asked Guy questions about his record breaking trip, including near misses with sharks, storms, food shortages, dealing with adversity and rowing 3 hours on, 3 hours off for over 3 months!
The aim of the busy and insightful session was to help the group, who are currently studying the highly rated Collyer’s employability course in their final year at the college, gain an understanding of the world of work and how to plan their futures. Hearing about Guy and Andrew’s two years of fund-raising and planning also gave them an insight into project management and following your dreams.
The students were also keen to learn about Guy’s other success stories, including his charity work with Streetscape and role as owner of Architectural Plants, based in Pulborough.
Steve Martell, said: “After the inspiring session, the students rightly agreed that Guy Watts is absolute ‘box office’ and it was certainly an honor for us to welcome him back to Collyer’s!”
Rebecca Adams, Collyer’s Director of Progression, who organised the session, said: “Guy is incredibly generous with his time and energy and has tirelessly supported Collyer’s employability course and next steps events from day one. He is a massive inspiration to us all.”
Guy Watts told the group: “It is great to return to Collyer’s and take part in a session in the Lecture Theatre, where I actually used to have Business classes during my time at Collyer’s all those years ago!
“I’m delighted to help you with your next steps, and to support Steve, Rebecca and Collyer’s on the great work they are doing to help you meet your potential.”