3 Grannies from the Netherlands at a global exhibition
Oceanology International in London is a huge international exhibition where the maritime world comes together: innovative technology, major companies, scientists, researchers and entrepreneurs from all corners of the globe. And right in the middle of it all stood 3 Grannies from the Dutch province of Overijssel. Not with a high-tech underwater robot or a futuristic sonar system, but with our own dream. A dream to row 5,000 kilometres across the Atlantic Ocean for children with cancer and to show that anything is possible, at any age, no matter how big or crazy your dream may seem.
A warm welcome from Braveheart Marine
We were in London at the invitation of our sponsor Braveheart Marine. Together with Jelle and his wife Caroline, and with Tjeerd and JP, we formed a wonderful team on the exhibition floor. And what a welcome we received! When we arrived at the stand, everything was already set up. We could already see our flag from afar, next to a beautiful desk designed in the Grannies’ style. We were greeted warmly as if the Grannies were simply part of the Braveheart team. And that’s exactly how it feels. Or, as they say at Braveheart: “Brave hearts, one family.”
Conversations with the whole world
Oceanology International is not just another exhibition. It is a place where people from the maritime sector from all over the world come together. Over the past few days we had so many wonderful conversations with people from different countries and a wide variety of companies. People who were curious about our story, our mission, and of course about the boat Braveheart, the boat that will carry us across the ocean. The most special thing was the reaction we received again and again when we told our story. First: surprise. Three grandmothers rowing across the ocean? What?! And then: enthusiasm. Because in the end, it’s not just about rowing. It’s about dreaming big, persevering, and about our goal: raising money for the Prinses Máxima Centrum for pediatric oncology.
Wonderful connections and generous donations
The exhibition brought us more than just inspiring conversations. We made new international connections and received donations. We had conversations that will continue in the near future and that may lead to new collaborations. Some ideas still need time to grow, and we will be continuing those discussions in the coming months. But we already feel that something beautiful may come from them.
Our sponsors on the international stage
During all those conversations we proudly mentioned our sponsors. Because without them, this adventure would simply not be possible. Of course Braveheart Marine, our friends from Urk, who generously made space for us at their stand at the exhibition and who are also making the transport of our ocean rowing boat possible. And of course Bonsink Yacht Painters from Zwartsluis, the company that rents our beautiful ocean rowing boat.
Lots of energy and sore feet
After a few intense days in London we returned home. With sore feet, but with a huge amount of energy. Because once again we experienced something important: wherever we go, our story touches people. And thanks to everyone we met in London, we are reminded once more that we will not be crossing that ocean alone. Many people are with us and making this journey possible.
Interested?
Do you want to know more, do you want to donate or need information about a partnership with Grannies on Waves? Please contact us on info@granniesonwaves.nl
