When Rich Harrison from Grimsby and Louis Gardner from Newquay line up for Race Across the UK this October, they’ll be drawing on a friendship that has lasted more than 25 years.
The pair first met in the late 1990s while training together in the Northumbrian Universities Royal Naval Unit. The experience helped shape their confidence and leadership skills, while forging a lifelong friendship. While Louis went on to serve 20 years in the Royal Navy Submarine Service, Rich built a successful career in financial services, but always remained closely connected to the Naval community.
Taking on Race Across the UK together felt like the perfect opportunity to reconnect, relive the spirit of adventure that first brought them together and give something back to the Naval family.
The pair have seen the positive impact of Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity (RNRMC) and the organisations it supports, with Louis experiencing that support firsthand during his Royal Navy career. Together, they want to help ensure that serving personnel, veterans and their families continue to receive the support they need.
They said:
“Race Across the UK gives us the opportunity to step outside our comfort zones, test ourselves physically and mentally, and raise money for a charity that gives so much back to the Naval community. The Royal Navy & Royal Marines Charity represents more than a charity; it is the enduring bond of the Naval family, supporting those who have served, those still serving, and the loved ones who stand beside them. It reminds us that once you’re part of the Navy, you’re never alone.”
While they admit that taking on the race in their late 40s may be physically demanding, they believe the resilience, teamwork and determination will see them through. More than anything, they’re looking forward to sharing another adventure together, meeting the other teams and collecting plenty of “dits” to spin for years to come.
Rich and Louis have already received fantastic support from friends, shipmates and colleagues, and will be sharing their journey through social media and their networks to help raise even more for RNRMC. Their name, Open Perspective, combines the names of Open Skies Network and Perspective Financial Group, recognising the generous support of both organisations, who have provided paid volunteering leave to enable Rich and Louis to take part.
The team are proud to be taking on this challenge to help ensure that future generations of sailors, marines, veterans and their families continue to receive the care and assistance they deserve.
Thinking of taking part yourself? Visit Race Across the UK or you can support Team “Open Perspective” here.
