On World AIDS Day, December 1, 2007, Victor Mooney, 43, of Queens, New York (USA) just didn't have the resources to make a second attempt to row across The Atlantic Ocean. Mooney looks to increase the Global Awareness of AIDS. He's determine to start from Goree Island, Senegal and cross to The Caribbean (3,000 miles/ 90 days); thereafter, he will head North to The Brooklyn Bridge, New York (5,000 miles/ 120 days). Money raised after the cost of Goree Challenge II - The Spirit of Zayed, will benefit AIDS Charities worldwide.

Goree Challenge II - The Spirit of Zayed will provide a global platform that embodies the spirit of teamwork and dedication. Using the state-of-art technology, this boat will be equipped to interact globally via the world-wide web using satelite telephone systems. Billions will again follow Victor Mooney's journey across the Atlantic Ocean; thereby, providing a educational platform for learning about health, math, science, history, financial literacy and the environment. 

This project is being organized by South African Arts International (SAAI), a New York based not-for-profit organization. Victor's first attempt on May 6, 2006 only lasted three hours when his handmade boat suffered a leak and eventually sunk. Victor was able to retrieve some vital equipment.

Mooney, devout Catholic, married father of four, Public Affairs Officer for a College in Brooklyn and Executive Director of New York based - South African Arts International. Having lost one brother to AIDS and another living with the virus, Mooney has been rowing the waters in New York since 2001 raising awareness of this disease that is 100% preventable.

During Victor Mooney's visit to the United Arab Emirates (August 4 thru 12), he met a variety of groups and individuals. On his last day, he met with the Red Crescent Society - AIDS Division and discussed common issues. It was mention of the rising HIV/AIDS epidemic in East Africa and that he should row from this region also. After returning back to New York, Victor announced that after his row from Senegal to New York, he'll ship his boat to Djibouti and row to the United Arab Emirates.

Stage 1: James Island, Gambia to Goree Island, Senegal
(This will be another sea trial on for The Spirit of Zayed))

Goree Challenge II - The Spirit of Zayed Rowing Route

Stage 2: Goree Island to The Brooklyn Bridge, New York City

Stage 3: Djibouti to United Arab Emirates

(Approximately three weeks after Victor arrives in New York City)