Press Release: Quad Cities, IL June 5, 2013
Moline to Mobile: Two men take 1300 mile personal watercraft journey, raising money for charity
In less than two weeks, Rich Bassford (Re/Max) and Robb Osborn (Wal-Mart pharmacy), of the Quad Cities, will hit the water to begin the journey of a lifetime. On June 23, 2013, the two men will launch their personal watercrafts into the Mississippi River, Moline, IL and set out for the Gulf of Mexico. Not only will the team be navigating their way through the water, they are also raising funds for charity in this first of its kind event.
Raising funds for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals is a priority for the two and they have committed to giving 100 percent of the ride's donations to the charity. Both Rich and Robb are employed by companies that have been raising funds for the organization for years and they have seen the benefit. Money raised for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals locally stays in the community and will help children in the Quad Cities. The challenging 1300 mile water ride will take the men through 7 states, 29 locks and intricate waterways. The journey begins with the Mississippi River, Ohio River, Cumberland River, Tennessee River, Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, Black Warrior River, Mobile Waterway, and concludes in the Gulf of Mexico at Dauphin Island.
Detailed planning and navigation has been a part of the process for the voyage. Engine durability and power, fuel efficiency and capacity, weight and comfort of the watercraft’s are key considerations to finishing the ride successfully. In addition, specialized GPS, 4 extra fuel tanks and marine communication devices were added to the list of things to take, along with weeks of mapping.
To follow the countdown until launch or donate to the ride, please visit: To The Gulf
Ride Facts:
Miles traveled on water: 1277
Number of waterways travelled: 8
Number of days estimated to complete ride: 6-8
Largest lock entered: Whitten Lock and Dam 84 feet tall
Average MPG/MGH: 5.5 MPG at 40-45 MPH
Tennessee’s River channel is 652 miles long and drops 513 feet in elevation along the way. 50 million tons of goods move each year over the channel. Tows are often 15 barges and are ½ mile long.
Of Interest:
62 children enter a Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals for treatment every minute.
Since 1983, Children's Miracle Network Hospitals has raised over $4 billion.
Follow the progress and see photos of the preparation:
Rocking The River Facebook Page
To see the countdown until launch and donate, please visit:
To The Gulf
Recent media and in the news:
Watercraft Performance
To see the ride as it progresses:
GoPro Site
For TVA lake info and water levels:
mobile app