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Weymouth veterans have passed the halfway point

Monday, 2 March 2026 08:16

By Jamie Lyones

Two military veterans have passed the halfway point of an extraordinary Atlantic rowing challenge – while also raising more than £10,000 for charity. Sean Phelps, from Portland, and his friend Jonny Towers, from Lancashire, are currently taking part in the 3,200-mile Atlantic Dash, rowing from Lanzarote to Antigua. Adding a unique twist to their challenge, the pair are completing parts of the journey in drag.

 

The former Royal Marine Commandos – rowing under their drag alter egos Dixie (Sean) and Drillia (Jonny) – are raising funds for Samaritans and Care After Combat. Their decision to row in drag is a nod to long-standing Royal Marine traditions, where Commandos have historically dressed up during social occasions as a way to unwind.

 

Sean’s wife, Jemma Phelps, said the pair have faced significant challenges at sea.

 

“They’re doing amazingly well but they’ve had a really tough time with tricky conditions and equipment issues,” she explained. “The worst has been a battery fault, which means they have to ration their water – not ideal when you’re rowing 12 hours a day.”

 

Despite the setbacks, the duo reached the halfway mark on Wednesday and surpassed £10,000 in donations. At the time of writing, they had raised £10,030.20 towards their £50,000 target.
 

While rowing in drag helps to lift morale during the demanding voyage, the mission carries a serious message. Under the banner “Changing Tides Row,” the pair are passionate about promoting mental health awareness and resilience, particularly within the armed forces community.

 

Funds raised will support Samaritans of Dorset and Care After Combat. The latter works to ensure no veteran faces their challenges alone, helping former Armed Forces personnel and their families – including those within the justice system – rebuild their lives with dignity and pride.

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