Crossing the Malta channel unassisted in the GasanMamo Kayak for Cancer challenge

Kayak for Cancer is the brainchild of Dorian J. Vassallo, an employee of GasanMamo, who in 2008 initiated a sea kayak endurance challenge as a way of generating funds for charity.

Following his wife’s battle with cancer in 2007, Vassallo felt he could channel his personal experience, his sensitivity and his drive into a test of endurance that could also be a catalyst to increase the public’s awareness of an illness that is touching deeply the lives of so many Maltese families.

This year’s challenge backed by GasanMamo will seek to collect funds for Puttinu Cares, and to highlight the difficulties and needs experienced by children suffering from cancer. Organisers and veteran paddlers of this year’s challenge Dorian J. Vassallo and Captain Albert Gambina will be accompanied by experienced athletes Mark Bugeja and Michael Gellel.

The two Maltese teams will be joined by a third team - Italian duo Francesco Landolina and Salvatore Messina from the Circolo Canoa Catania. In common with past crossings the paddlers will be using K2 or doubles kayaks. 

The paddlers will leave Malta at the end of June to row across the Malta Channel and make their way north towards the Sicilian coast, without the assistance of escort boats, and completing their voyage in the port of Catania. The total distance of the crossing will cover approximately 135 nautical miles over three days with the rowers paddling at an average speed of 3 / 3.5 knots. The weather will play an important part in their plans, and will determine the departure date.

The route will be divided into three nearly equidistant legs – the shortest distance between Malta and Sicily is approximately 47 miles long from Marfa to Sampieri, and will take around 14 to 16 hours of paddling.  The teams will camp on a close-by beach and will leave the day after to Marina di Avola, and an additional 14 hours of rowing until they reach Catania.

Building on past achievements, Dorian and Albert are facing their upcoming challenge with determination and enthusiasm.  “Ours in a personal challenge of sport, fitness and endurance spurred by a commitment to make a modest contribution towards easing some of the difficulties children with cancer go through,” said  Vassallo.

“We believe strongly in the sterling work being undertaken by cancer support foundation Puttinu Cares.  We have seen how they work and have personally experienced their great dedication to Maltese cancer patients and their families.  With the help of GasanMamo we are working on making this paddle one of courage, support and hope.”

The paddlers have long since started training for the challenge, which entails grueling hours at the gym and paddling around the Maltese archipelago, preparing the body for long hours at sea and for strenuous physical activity.

Julian J. Mamo, Director at GasanMamo said: “We are backing Dorian and Albert’s expedition that will see them courageously paddle the channel completely unassisted for a good cause. Knowing full well Dorian’s drive and determination, we have no doubtthis challenge will be a successful one, and will bring people together to contribute generously towards the needs of children with cancer.”

Donations to the GasanMamo Kayak for Cancer Challenge 2011 can be made by sending an SMS to 5061 7366 (€2.33); 5061 8075 (€4.66) or 5061 9208 (€11.65). Cheques payable to Puttinu Cares are to be mailed to GasanMamo Insurance Ltd, Head Office, Msida Road, Gzira. One can also made a donation personally in any one of GasanMamo’s branches around Malta. The GasanMamo Kayak for Cancer Challenge 2011 can also be found on Facebook.