New York City – Victor Mooney of Forest Hills is looking to make his first landing point in the British Virgin Islands. Mooney will be making his 4th attempt to cross the Atlantic Ocean from Las Palmas, Canary Islands to New York City beginning on World AIDS Day – December 1st.
The 19 foot custom made boat was built by Flavio Antonio Rodrigues of Flab – Construção Artesanal de Embarcações and designed by Luis Gouveia of B&J Yacht Design, both are Brazilian based. Mooney, a veteran rower, has lost one brother to AIDS and has another that’s HIV+. Mooney hopes his row will encourage voluntary HIV testing and increased prevention efforts.
“BVI has a special place in the hearts of many, so it’s fitting to have a re-supply before heading home”, said Mooney.
“I wish success in your fourth attempt to cross the Atlantic Ocean, but please know that, in our eyes, you have already achieved something far more lasting and spectacular: you have successfully raised awareness about the ongoing HIV epidemic”, said Doctor Kevin Fenton, Director of National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD and TB Prevention at the Centers for Disease Control.
Victor Mooney
If successful, Mooney will be the first African-American to cross the Atlantic Ocean by rowboat. Mooney will do a practice row from Rio de Janiero to Sao Paulo next month.
