By Tallon Smith 

Riverina Rugby League legend Roy Jewitt is preparing for a mammoth 24 hour rowing challenge on March 15 to raise money for research into Motor Neurone Disease.

Beginning at 6pm, the former captain-coach of Young, as well as Yanco-Wamoon and DPC Roosters in Group 20, will row 5 kilometres on the hour for 24 hours in a gruelling physical challenge, and will be joined by 3 people per hour for a total of 72 fellow participants.

The local footy legend said he was inspired to take action after witnessing the suffering of a family friend who passed away as a result of the condition last year.

“In our small town of Young we have a very high rate of MND sufferers,” he said.

“We’ve lost so many to the horrible disease, [and] I’ve helped out with fundraisers previously. 

“When a family we are close to lost a husband and father just before Christmas I thought it was time to step up and help again.”

Jewitt explained how the fundraiser will work, with entrants to help fundraise by paying a $20 entry fee to row with him.

“Starting on the 15th march at 6pm at NRG gym in Young I will row 5km, [and] I will then hopefully do that every hour on the hour for 24 hours,” he said.

“We will have 3 other rowing machines which will be used by the good people of Young and surrounds. 

“Each person will pay $20 to row with me, [and] we will also have a treadmill, a bike and a cross trainer going.

“Also, individuals and local businesses are making donations to the cause, [and] we are encouraging people to pop in during the 24 hours and show some support.

“We will also have the MND bell which will be rung at the start of every leg. It will be rung by someone who’s been closely affected by MND.”

Jewitt said that anyone is encouraged to walk, run or participate in any physical activity, to spark a conversation about MND, and if they can, to donate to the fundraiser.

“We have people outside of Young who will be doing something on the day,” he said. 

“[Former NRL player] Adam Perry and [ex-Super League star] Richard Russell have already done their row and donated. 

“We encourage everyone to maybe go for a walk or a ride for MND on the day.”

Jewitt said news of the challenge, which was inspired by the efforts of Kevin Sinfield CBE after his former Leeds teammate Rob Burrow CBE was diagnosed with the disease, has also spread back to the UK, with many Super League and Championship stars also planning to row for MND.

Both were recently given the post-nominal title recently for their efforts in fundraising for MND research.

“I got the idea off of a mate of mine, Kevin Sinfield, Kev’s raised millions of pounds in England by doing some incredible challenges all for MND,” he said.

“[Sky Sports UK Commentator] Barrie McDermott and Jon Perks will be organising the challenge at my old football club in England, Waterhead ARLFC.”

However, despite the global reach of the challenge, Jewitt is maintaining a distinct local focus as well, in helping the Cass family.

“[I’m] hoping this event will help raise funds for the Cass family who lost their husband and father, and also help raise much needed funds for MND research,” he said.

“This could very well be the first of many challenges.”

Those who wish to get involved in some capacity and/or donate are encouraged to check out the Row with Roy Facebook page and drop into NRG Fitness Centre on the day of the challenge, March 15.