GLADIATOR ROWING EXPERIENCE BENEFITS FROM A DEFIBRILLATOR GIFT

Building self-confidence and improving fitness is behind a remarkable rowing experience in a Romford shopping centre.

Established by the UK’s first ever Gladiator Champion Weininger Irwin, Cool Rowings has a sense of community at its heart – often exposing the sport to many who otherwise would have no appreciation of the benefits it provides. RALPHH was therefore delighted to assist Weininger with the gift of a defibrillator, being the last presentation of potentially life-saving equipment in 2025.

Based in the Mercury Shopping Centre, 20 ergo rowing machines sit alongside the selling space for T-shirts. There are children and youth classes, may of which introduce rowing to younger people who may then want to take their now-found knowledge to join rowing clubs in the area. Additionally, the equipment provides the basis for adult fitness and seniors mobility groups. The strong emphasis is upon inclusivity and well-being.   

RALPHH Trustee Tim Liversage attended the novel retail outlet to present the defibrillator, where he learned that Cool Rowings included among its clientele three British indoor rowing medallists as well as 87-year old Hazel Parkins, who is the British indoor record holder.

“Having immediate access to a defibrillator is essential for us and all who join our community, “said Weininger.

2025 proved to be RALPHH’s most effective year at gifting defibrillation equipment to schools and sporting outlets across the country. 34 defibrillators were donated by the charity and, whilst the majority of these were rowing-related, other sports to come onboard in the last 12 months have been cricket, canoeing and sailing for disabled people.