MBAER Bank - The Swiss Merchant Bank

The Bank with a Soul

Eat, sleep, row, repeat: MBaer is the new sponsor of "SWISS RAW"

By Pàl von Mérey and Moritz Wild 

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As part of the Talisker Whisky Challenge, the adventurous four-person "SWISS RAW" crew will set off on a 4,800-kilometer rowing trip across the Atlantic Ocean on Sunday, December 12, 2021. MBaer is proud to support this great mission.

As part of the Talisker Whisky Challenge, the adventurous four-person "SWISS RAW" crew will set off on a 4,800-kilometer rowing trip across the Atlantic Ocean on Sunday, December 12, 2021. MBaer is proud to support this great mission.

The Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge is the toughest rowing race in the world - to experience it is an inspiring event, a once-in-a-lifetime journey and the challenge of a lifetime. Roman Möckli, Ingvar Groza, Samuel Widmer and Jan Hurni are taking on this challenge, allowing them to experience the thrill of the majestic ocean.

The four young men from Switzerland have been preparing for over two years to row across the big pond. Starting in the Spanish port of San Sebastian de la Gomera in the Canary Islands and ending in Nelson's Dockyard in Antigua-Barbuda, the "SWISS RAW" crew will spend between 30 and 90 days at sea.  On their 4'800 kilometre route to Antigua, they will face steady waves, extreme physical challenges and nature in its purest form. As if the challenge was not enough, the young crew also attempted to set a world record. The goal is to arrive at the destination in 29 days.

1.5 million oar strokes are required to cross the ocean

1.5 million oar strokes are required to cross the ocean

An amazing undertaking

To reach the finish line, rowers need drive, determination, teamwork and strength of character to succeed. At MBaer, these values are also critical for our long-term success. At MBaer, we know that the performance of each counts in creating something much more significant. That is how it is in the middle of the ocean; that's how it is with us also.

This is a unique opportunity to work with a highly motivated and dedicated team willing to push themselves to their limits and achieve extraordinary things. The enthusiasm and dedication of the athletes convinced us to support this project.

To get our own idea, we were allowed to swing the oars with the crew. Already our 100-metre team challenge was hard work - so it's hard to imagine the determination the whole race requires from the crew.

To get our own idea, we were allowed to swing the oars with the crew. Already our 100-metre team challenge was hard work - so it's hard to imagine the determination the whole race requires from the crew.

Rowing for a good cause

By participating in the Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge, the rowers are raising money for charity. Therefore, "SWISS RAW" started their crowdfunding project to support the Swiss children's charity "Kovive". The proceeds from the boat's resale after the successful Atlantic crossing will also go to this charity. The rowers are role models for young people and show how they can conquer the world and overcome incredible challenges with their actions. The four friends will also actively participate in Kovive camps and support the camp teams in sports activities.

For their upcoming crossing of the Atlantic Ocean, we wish them the best of luck!  We look forward to following their progress in the live ticker and celebrating their success together during and after the race.