The centre has joined forces with Vic Handley, from Littleover Derby, who will become the third oldest person at the age of 70 to complete the 3,000-mile solo row across the Atlantic Ocean.
The row, which will take him from La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Antigua in the Caribbean, is set to begin on 12 December 2024 and take up to 85 days depending on weather.
As well as being a great personal achievement, Vic hopes to raise vital funds for four local charities close to his heart – Umbrella, Derby County Community Trust, Safe and Sound and Mind Derbyshire – and boost the profile of the city of Derby.
Derbion’s lead partnership with Vic is part of the centre’s ongoing commitment to the local community. The partnership will see Derbion branding prominently displayed on Vic’s boat, as well as Vic sharing regular video messages to the centre and its shoppers during his challenge.
Today and tomorrow (14 & 15 June), Vic will be displaying his boat “City of Derby UK” inside Derbion, giving shoppers the chance to see it up close and learn more about the challenges he will face during his adventure. Additional exciting in-centre activity in support of Vic will also be revealed over the coming weeks.
Beth McDonald, Managing Director of Derbion, said: “We are delighted to have formed this partnership with Vic and alongside the whole city, everybody at Derbion will be supporting and cheering him on throughout his venture.
“We value our local communities and are committed to ensuring we make a positive contribution across Derbyshire and beyond. Vic’s journey is an inspiration to all of us, demonstrating that with determination and support, extraordinary feats can be achieved.
“Being Derby born and bred, Vic’s challenge truly resonates with us as a central venue within the heart of the city. We wish Vic the very best of luck for the World’s Toughest Row.”
Vic Handley commented: “I am incredibly grateful to have such an iconic brand as Derbion on board. Their generous support as lead partner of my 3,000-mile ocean challenge not only provides essential resources, but also inspires me to push through the many challenges I will face during my epic journey.
“This journey is not just about crossing an ocean, it’s about empowering people that no matter what your age, if you have the right support, determination and the will to succeed, you can overcome any obstacle in life. This is going to be the biggest challenge of my lifetime – and I want to do it for my beloved city, while raising crucial funds for four incredible local charities.”
For more information on Vic Handley’s The World’s Toughest Row and to follow his journey, head to www.vicsoloatlanticrow.com. For further details on Derbion, visit www.derbion.com.