(Type 1) British rower found dead on boat while attempting Atlantic charity challenge

[Northerner]

A British man has died while attempting to row between Gran Canaria and Barbados on a solo Atlantic Ocean charity challenge.

The family of Michael Holt, 54, who lived in Wirral, announced his death on his Facebook page.


Holt, who had type 1 insulin-dependent diabetes, set off on his nearly 3,000-mile challenge on 27 January, expecting it to take between 40 and 110 days.

It has now emerged that Holt became ill and died on his boat. His body was found by the crew of a fishing vessel which had sailed to his aid.

Holt’s brother, David, said on Facebook: “We have been working tirelessly to get help to Michael over the past four days but have found it incredibly difficult to do so. Last night the fishing vessel Noruego accepted a tasking from Cape Verde Joint Rescue Coordination Centre and made directly for Michael’s coordinates.

“Very sadly, upon arrival, Michael was found dead inside his cabin.

British rower found dead on boat while attempting Atlantic charity challenge

Body of Michael Holt, who had been rowing solo between Gran Canaria and Barbados, found by fishing vessel crew

www.theguardian.com

So sad

 

[Inka]

Very sad indeed. I’d read the news on newsflashes but hadn’t seen that he had Type 1. He was clearly a very brave man to attempt that, diabetes or not.

 

[nonethewiser]

Read this online last night & they mentioned he had type 1, think Michael had done fair few events raising money for charity's, such a shame.

 

[rebrascora]

The guy must have had a lot of guts and determination and it is really sad that this has ended in tragedy, when he was alone and far from home or any help. My heart goes out to his family and friends.

There is one thing for sure, he certainly took the advice that Diabetes should not stop you from doing anything you set your sights on, to the very furthest limit! Such a shame that he didn't make it. Very sad indeed.

 

[Bloden]

I thought I spotted a Libre on his arm in a photo of him during the row - I must admit, I thought he was mad to do a challenge like that alone...brave guy, very sad.

 

[Drummer]

I think some of us just can't help ourselves when it comes to the big adventure.