Setting out: Justin Bishop and Toby Booth at the front of the canoe
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Former London Irish coaches quit charity canoe marathon on medical advice
By Alan ManicomJuly 03, 2012
Former London Irish coaches Toby Booth, Neal Hatley and Justin Bishop were forced to pull out of the gruelling 444-mile Yukon River Quest they were attempting in aid of Help for Heroes.
Their six-man canoe was withdrawn on medical advice halfway through the marathon paddling race to Dawson City in Canada, just below the Arctic Circle.
The crew had battled through sub-zero temperatures to complete 212 miles in 27 hours before taking their first break.
But mandatory health checks established that two of the team were unable to continue due to sleep deprivation and hyperthermia .
Hatley, who along with Booth has joined Exiles' Premiership rivals Bath for next season, tweeted: “I was fine, although others struggled.
“I can honestly say it was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. Two of the crew were hallucinating.
“I am gutted about the team having to pull out of the challenge. Thanks for all the support.”
Text the message YUKN99£?? to 70070 to donate (e.g. YUKN99£5) or visit www.bmycharity.com/InterserveLondonIrishYUKON to donate online.
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