WhatsApp Image 2026-01-22 at 13.32.58.jpeg

Daz & Dunc have been friends and trusted allies for over 30 years. First meeting at tiny village rugby club, Claverdon RFC in the late 1990s, we quickly realised we are kindred spirits in our pursuit of endurance challenges.

With different personalities and different physiques, we are cut from the same cloth in our calm, collected and committed mental approach to all things endurance.

This approach is neatly encapsulated in our mantra...

Joy Be The Journey.

Daz & Duncan
AKA Claverdon Lions

Meet Daz & Duncan

Daz Ariss

Age at start of row:

Height:

6ft1"

Weight:

14st3lbs

Endurance Experience:

Trekked 400 miles to the North Pole, against the elements.
Pure 3 Peaks challenge, summiting and cycling between the highest peaks in the UK within 72 hours.
Completed ‘The Wall,’ a 70 mile endurance event from Carlisle to Newcastle along Hadrian’s Wall.

Wider Experience:

I've served in the army, led fire arms teams within the police, and also served as a close-protection officer (bodyguard) to a number of the Royal Family. I prepare thoroughly, and am used to operating under extreme pressure.

Why Row an Ocean?

The freedom.
The true test of mental and physical endurance.
The Bucket List!

Why LooseHeadz Charity?

Rugby is my passion both as an ex-player and now a supporter.

I have drawn strength from this sporting community over the years when faced with personal challenges resultant of my father committing suicide when I was a child.

This has had a deep and profound impact on me and having since lost friends and colleagues to suicide, I believe that change is needed. Any opportunity to tackle the stigma around mental health, especially amongst men, is an opportunity not to be missed!

LooseHeadz is a natural and fitting connection that provides essential contact and support

Describe Dunc in 3 Words:

Tenacious. Honest. Committed.

Duncan Nealon

Age at start of row:

Height:

5ft9"

Weight:

12st7lbs

Endurance Experience:

More marathons than I can properly remember.

Many ultra-marathons.

60 mile ultra-marathon in 8 hours.

3 Peaks Challenge in 17 hours.

Completed the Marathon Des Sables - 6 marathons in 6 days through the Sahara Desert.

Wider Experience:

I have founded, and led a number of successful businesses. I'm experienced at putting complex plans into action. I'm also calm under pressure, and know how to get the best out of both myself, and others around me.

Why Row an Ocean?

The simplicity, and the purity of the challenge. Man working with nature.

The sanctity away from everyday life pressures.

Why LooseHeadz Charity?

Male mental health needs focused attention. I personally know half a dozen men who have very sadly taken their own lives.

It has to stop.

We have to end the stigma associated with male mental health.

And being a former grassroots rugby player whose life and friendships have been largely based around the game, the connection with LooseHeadz is both natural and immediate.

Simply put, as a society, we absolutely have to shine a light on the importance of men talking, sharing the load, and improving their mental health.

Describe Daz in 3 Words:

Professional. Reliable. Unbreakable.