Row4UKraine

In July 2024 former Royal Marine, Lee Spencer, is taking on his next challenge and will lead a team of rowers comprising two Ukrainian Wounded, Injured and Sick (WIS) and two British WIS to row unsupported across the Atlantic. The row will raise money to help with Ukrainian WIS rehabilitation and will also display solidarity between the UK and Ukraine.

The team will consist of Lee himself, Dmytro Rezvoy (who built the boat), Ivan Gavrylko, Semen Lagun (Sam), Derman Ihor Olehovych (Igor) and Andy Merry.

Since the onset of the war in Ukraine, numerous western countries have rallied behind Ukraine, extending their support through humanitarian, financial and military aid. The United Kingdom has emerged as the second-largest contributor, having pledged £4.6 billion in military assistance to Ukraine so far.

Despite facing a cost-of-living crisis, the British public has overwhelmingly embraced the country’s involvement in aiding Ukraine. But while the financial assistance provided by Britain enjoys significant popular support, it is essential to shed light on the human cost borne by Ukrainian service personnel engaged in a conflict that falls beyond our direct involvement.

Lee’s mission is:

• To raise awareness of the human cost of the war in Ukraine borne solely by Ukrainian service personnel.
• To celebrate the unity and comradeship between Ukrainian and British WIS.
• To raise £150,000 for the INVICTUS Games Foundation, ringfenced for Ukrainian WIS to enable rehabilitation through sport and adventure.

Surrey Steels are immensely proud to be supporting Lee and his team in this amazing challenge.