Projects

The Atlantic Grappler:
A 3000-mile solo row across the Atlantic Ocean.

Mike Bates with tattoos, sunglasses, and a white T-shirt rowing a small race boat on the water. Mike's final training row before his solo ocean row in 2022.
Mike Bates, shirtless with tattoos, wearing a cap, holding a lit flare, with water and a ship in the background. The moment Mike completed his solo row across the Atlantic Ocean in 2022.

In December 2022 Mike embarked on his biggest challenge yet departing La Gomera in the Canary Islands.  Arriving in Antigua in late January 2023 Mike became the fastest Britain in history to complete the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge, a 3000 mile unsupported solo row in 46 days, 6 hours and 10 minutes.  

Mike inspired many people across the world and raised a staggering £137,000 for the hospital unit that saved his youngest son's life.

Gracie Barra Roundhay Leeds:
A Community First Project

Mike Bates speaking to students during a class at Gracie Barra Roundhay Leeds.
A group of children and instructors in a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu class at Gracie Barra Roundhay Leeds sitting in a circle on a blue mat in a gym, with windows and white walls.

Mike is a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt and has trained on the mats for almost 25 years.  Having competed around the world, Mike never intended to start his academy. However, watching the world struggle and become disconnected during the COVID pandemic Mike felt compelled to create a community for others to reconnect after lockdown.

In December 2020 Mike co-founded GBRL and began coaching and teaching BJJ within his local community.  GBRL quickly became one of the fastest-growing BJJ academies in the world and now stands as one of the most successful Gracie Barra academies in Europe with over 500 students.

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UNIFY:
A Mission Driven Business Helping Men Live Happier, Healthier & More Fulfilled Lives.

A group of men standing in front of a large teepee in an outdoor setting with trees in the background. The first UNIFY MEN event co-founded by Mike Bates.

Mike remains passionate about helping others to achieve their goals in life and to live a life without limits.

In March 2025 Mike co-founded UNIFY with the aim of helping to support men of all ages.

UNIFY's mission is to change the conversation around men and men's health, helping to break down the stigma associated with the challenges men face and to break the devastating statistics around male suicide and loneliness.

UNIFY deliver’s world-class events and offer resources and insights through their free weekly newsletter The Journal.

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