Donations have been pouring in over the past couple of weeks and I have been taken aback by people's generosity, 'mile taing' to everyone who has pledged money so far...but I need more!
As well as trying to get friends and family to part with their hard-earned cash I have also been trying to get various media outlets interested in my venture (all of them, of course, following in the wake of the 'Gazette'!) in the hope that the exposure will persuade more sponsors to come forward and support my cause.
A press release which I sent out has so far been picked up by a couple of newspapers and hopefully more will follow closer to the actual day of the event. I also did an interview for STV's 'North Tonight' and will also be appearing on Isles FM and BBC Radio Scotland.
As well as doing a lot of talking I have also been doing plenty of listening as I try and get as much advice as possible from those who know the Minch much better than I do.
I must admit that, as launch day comes ever closer, I am becoming increasingly nervous about what lies ahead, but I am also very excited. It was around this time last year that I crossed the Minch in very different circumstances and for very different reasons. But that was then and this is now.
If you would like to sponsor me then please have a look at my website www.rowthminch.com, which has very kindly been designed by Sealgar IT Solutions. If you would like more information or think that you can help me in any way then please do get in touch using either e-mail: info@rowtheminch.com or mobile: 07900 442 512.
For more on Niall Iain's thoughts, wonderings and training regime, pick up a copy of this week's Stornoway Gazette - in shops today.