Matthew Pritchard, Billy Taylor, Martin Heseltine and Johnny Ward (AKA Monkey Fist Adventures) are rowing the 3,200 miles (5,150 km) from Lanzarote to Antigua in support of The Dean Farm Trust and the men's mental health charity Humen. 

They will be rowing in pairs in two hours shifts: 2 hours rowing then 2 hours break getting some much needed food and sleep. Rowing unassisted means they will need to carry the 1.08 million calories (6,000 calories each per day) of entirely meat free food with them from the start line! They will be living and sleeping on their 8.8m (29ft) custom boat made in the Avon Marina, Christchurch for the 35 - 45 day journey. 

Matthew, who you may also know as a front man of Dirty Sanchez, became vegan in 2015 after seeing Cowspiracy, the 2014 documentary exploring the link between animal agriculture and the environment. Since then he has hosted two seasons of the 'Dirty Vegan' broadcast on the BBC and authored two books based on the show.

His epic challenge will highlight the fact that we do not need animal products to power our bodies even at this level of physical and mental exertion and stress.

The team are raising awareness and funds for the Dean Farm Trust in South Wales UK which is home to some 180 rescued animals. They believe in compassion, life and empowerment – all factors that contribute to a sustainable, healthy and cruelty free planet. By providing information on the use of animals in factory farming, intensive breeding and cruel sports they seek to enable cruelty free choices and wider awareness. They are also supporting HUMEN a movement to improve and maintain men's mental health.

You can follow the team live and find out more including how to donate to the Dean Farm Trust and HUMEN at: Monkey Fist - Atlantic Dash

Do you know where the word vegan came from?