Michael Longley started his epic journey on his Indoor Rower seven and a half years ago. Putting in 4.5 miles a day, the industrial engineer from Nottingham has become only the fourth Brit ever to clock up a total of 20 million metres, the equivalent of rowing from Britain to New Zealand. Since he began on July 28th 1998, he has rarely missed a day – even at Christmas and while on holiday, if the hotel had a gym.We'd try and find somewhere with an Indoor Rower, otherwise I'd just have to make up the lost time when I got back home. I'd say I haven't had to catch up on more than two weeks a year, Michael said.The former Nottingham Boat Club rower had already rowed 15 million metres when he decided to dedicate the last five million to charity and raise funds for a cause close to his heart – the children's ward at Nottingham City Hospital, where his daughter's life was saved 18 years ago.His daughter Lisa 25, who at the time was too ill to be operated on, was given the all clear after several anxious weeks. The idea to raise money is our way of showing our appreciation to the staff there. Lisa could have quite easily died. Giving money raised from the last five million metres is a way to pay something back, said Michael.The £3,000 raised will pay for a Crit-Line monitor to help youngsters being treated for kidney failure. Michael added: I feel very pleased to be able to give the hospital this money. It's cash well spent, doing some good for someone else. You know how important equipment like this is when you've been through an experience like my family.Now that his challenge is over, Michael has mixed feelings about his achievement. He is pleased that he completed the task but is keen to continue rowing.It's been a big part of my life for so many years. I shall carry on rowing, but I expect I'll take it a littler easier. If I fancy a day off, I'll be able to take it. I have had more injuries than I can mention through other sports like football and cycling, but the Indoor Rower has been an absolute lifeline to me. It really keeps me fit and in shape, there's no way I will be stopping anytime soon. For more on the Concept2 Distance Award Scheme, check out http://www.therowingcompany.com/rowing/distance_award_scheme.php.