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ATLANTIC ASSAULT OFFICIAL LOGO

About Atlantic Assault

Atlantic Assault is a charitable row dedicated to raising funds for the Royal Marines Charity. In December 2025, Serving and Veteran Royal Marines will embark on a challenging row across the Atlantic Ocean to raise awareness and support for this important cause. Our team is passionate about supporting our brave servicemen and women who have made sacrifices for our country. Join us in our mission to make a difference and support our cause.

OCEAN ROWING BOAT OVERHEAD

The Challenge

Rowing across the Atlantic is a monumental feat, and Atlantic Assault is prepared to confront a series of formidable challenges head-on. From the relentless physical demands of rowing for weeks on end to the mental fortitude required to cope with isolation, the team will push their limits. They'll battle unpredictable weather, including scorching sun and raging storms, and navigate through monstrous waves that can reach towering heights all whilst rowing in shifts of 2 hours rowing and 2 hours sleeping all whilst.

Why the Atlantic?

The Atlantic Ocean represents the ultimate test of endurance, courage, and commitment. It's a relentless force of nature that mirrors the unwavering dedication of our team, as we row across its vast expanse to support the Royal Marines Charity. Our journey across the Atlantic is a symbolic tribute to the challenges faced by those who serve, and a testament to the power of teamwork and determination.

ATLANTIC OCEAN

Meet the Team

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Craig Ainsworth | 41

Craig, a 40 year-old veteran Royal Marine Commando, Elite Bodyguard, and Surveillance Specialist. He’s protected a “who’s who” list of Royalty, Officials, Celebrities, and Billionaires. He’s conducted surveillance on the world’s most dangerous criminals at close quarters and orchestrated the arrest of major mafioso. He then stepped into and worked to support the evolution of the film security industry whilst working for Warner Bros, Sony & Netflix. However, when Covid struck, like the rest of the world, his crazy life came to a halt and he sat alone at home, witnessing the suffering of so many around him, losing 11 friends to suicide in 16 months. This weighed heavy on him as he felt he’d protected so many but couldn’t protect those he loved. He fell into a depression and nearly took his own life but fought his way out of the darkness thanks to his Commando brotherhood, vowing to make a difference and help people overcome mental health issues and become the best versions of themselves. Virtuous Savage was born, and now empowers, minds, bodies, and goals across the globe. His biography, “The Discombobulated Alpha”, details every aspect of his journey; but to prove to the world that dreams come true when you are brave enough to fight for them, Craig set out to find a challenge bigger than any before... he has certainly found it in what lays ahead for the Atlantic Assault Team.

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William Harpham-Shelton | 29

Will, a 28-year-old from Yorkshire and ex-Royal Marines Commando, is adept in the rigours of cold weather warfare and signalling, a specialisation he honed from 2015 to 2019. Transitioning to civilian life, he has become an integral part of 2Excel Aviation as a Charter Planner, where his expertise lies in arranging complex flights for a varied roster of clients, including football teams and distinguished VIPs. Outside of his professional pursuits, Will is deeply committed to his family, celebrating two years of marriage with his wife, Olivia, and embracing the joys and challenges of fatherhood with their 6-week-old son, Charlie, in their Doncaster home. This home is also filled with the lively presence of their two working cocker spaniels. A passionate rugby enthusiast, Will's Yorkshire roots run deep, but it's his unyielding spirit that drives him towards a monumental goal: to row across the Atlantic. Despite no previous experience in rowing, his resolve is steadfast. His ambition is fuelled by a longing to reconnect with his Marine comrades and a powerful intent to support the Royal Marines Charity—a testament to his enduring camaraderie and altruistic vision.

ROYAL MARINES CHARITY

Our Charity

The Royal Marines Charity is a UK-based organization dedicated to providing crucial support and assistance to serving and retired Royal Marines and their families. Established to enhance the well-being and quality of life for those associated with the Royal Marines community, the charity offers a range of services and initiatives to address physical, mental, and financial challenges that may arise due to military service. These services encompass areas such as rehabilitation, retraining, respite care, and more, aiming to empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives post-service. 

Our Aims

Supporting the Corps

Supporting The Corps

Our primary goal is to honor and support the Ranks of the Royal Marines who have dedicated their lives to serving their country. We aim to raise funds that will provide essential support to current and Veteran Royal Marines, ensuring they receive the care, assistance, and opportunities they deserve. By doing so, we hope to express our profound gratitude and give back to those who have selflessly defended our nation.

Inspiring others

Inspiring Others

By taking on the monumental challenge of rowing the Atlantic, we aim to inspire individuals and communities to come together, rally behind our cause, and contribute to a brighter future for our military. We hope that our journey will serve as a powerful example of what can be achieved through determination, teamwork, and a shared commitment to making a positive impact.

Promoting Resilience

Promoting Resilience

Our expedition across the Atlantic Ocean serves as a testament to the spirit of adventure and resilience that defines not only the Royal Marines but also all those who seek to challenge themselves and push their boundaries. Through our journey, we aim to inspire others to embrace adventure, explore the unknown, and discover their own inner strength. We want to show that with determination and a willingness to venture into uncharted waters, we can achieve remarkable feats and overcome life's most daunting challenges.

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