Isabel Burnham

Team Member (1st Leg)

Age: 30

Job in the “real” world: Solicitor specialising in intellectual property litigation

Past adventures/sporting success: I have always had a passion for sport and the outdoors and I’m willing to give pretty much anything a go. Whilst a student I rowed for Cambridge University. Since then I’ve run all sorts of races from shorter distances up to ultramarathons and taken part in numerous adventure races and multisport events. My favourite place to be is in the hills/mountains, and I am a keen trail runner, trekker, mountaineer and skier. I enjoy team challenges and last summer I was privileged to be part of the The Italian Jog – an 8 person continuous running relay from London Bridge to the Colosseum in aid of Access Sport.

Why am I doing the row? I want to take on a challenge that is completely outside of my comfort zone and will allow me to push myself mentally and physically to my limits. Taking part in the row with the Coxless Crew is a wonderful opportunity to see what can be achieved by a strong, committed team and to experience an adventure into the unknown.

What excites me most about the row? The feeling when we make it to the start line and are ready to go with adventure ahead of us.

What am I going to miss the most? My family. Hills, trees, and the ability to put on my trainers and go for a run.

What food will I miss the most? Yoghurt and fresh fruit and veg.

What am I looking forward to the most? Hopefully seeing some beautiful dawns, sunsets and stars out at sea. The feeling when we are back on solid ground reunited with family and friends.

My power song on the boat: Too many to choose from! ‘Keep you head up’ by Ben Howard, or ‘Happy’ by Pharell Williams. I’ll be definitely be singing along to ‘Lose Yourself’ by Eminem with Emma as well.