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Triumph Over the North Atlantic Ocean : a Monumental Rowing Adventure
Rowing the North Atlantic is a monumental feat that requires incredible physical and mental endurance. The North Atlantic is known for its challenging weather patterns, strong currents, and unpredictable conditions, making it one of the most demanding bodies of water to cross. On 28th Jan 2016, approaching midnight – I was sitting in my rowing position on the “Toby Wallace”, a light-weight ocean…
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My Ultimate Kayaking Adventure : Crossing The English Channel both ways
I embarked on the ultimate kayak journey across the English Channel, paddling from Dungeness, UK to Boulogne, France. Discover tips, routes, and the adventure of a lifetime! BBC . South East Today – Evening News 25.6.2021 – I’m on the Telly!!! On the 3rd February 2021, I completed my chemotherapy treatment for Cancer and rang the Bell. Six months later…
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A Trek into the World’s Largest Hot Desert: The Sahara
Discover the Majestic Beauty of the Sahara Desert: To me, the Sahara displays an awe-inspiring uniqueness as did the North Pole. They share extremes of contrasts yet alike in so many ways; legend, mystery and raw beauty. Both can and will kill you if you don’t respect them. The Sahara is the largest non-polar desert on our planet; 3,320,000 square miles…
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Trek to the Highest Mountain in Africa
My Journeys to the Summit of Mt Kilimanjaro: Highest Mountain in Africa Kilimanjaro demands respect, this mighty dormant volcano, soaring from the African plains, stands as the tallest freestanding mountain globally, reaching a staggering 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. I have climbed to Uhuru Peak, the Summit of Kilimanjaro Twice: Conquering Africa’s Tallest Freestanding Mountain- the second time…
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Highest Rugby Match Ever Played on Mount Everest
In April 2019 we trekked in the footsteps of Mallory and Irvine, up the Magic Highway’ to Mt Everest’s Advance Base Camp (ABC3) 6,500m/ 21325ft ; which is just below the North Col to play two games of Rugby on a glacier. Myself and Lesley, trekked and played alongside, Rugby stars Lee Mears, Ollie Phillips, Shane Williams, Tamara Taylor plus 20 inspirational…
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Man Overboard: The Most Feared Words in Ocean Rowing
The Toby Wallace Atlantic Rowing Tragedy – January/February 2016 The Toby Wallace Atlantic Row – January/February 2016 Tragedy struck in the night of February 14th. Location close to 18 29′ N 039 06′ W. over a thousand miles from land. https://my.yb.tl/oceanusrowing Simon gave a loud warning shout, “big wave”. I looked up to see a monster swell coming at us fast…
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Adventures, Camping / Equipment & Accessories, Expeditions, Hiking / Trekking, Hiking / Trekking, My Blog, Speaking
The Polar Race: 648km to the Top of the World
On April 9th, 2009, I faced an extraordinary challenge— “Probably the World’s Toughest Race” At 61, with 28 years of sobriety strengthening my resolve, I stood alongside my 34-year-old teammate, James Trotman. Embarking on the Race to the North Pole was more than just a contest; it was a daring expedition and the ultimate test of survival in one of…
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Outdoor Activists : Useful Contacts for Training, and Emergency Services
A comprehensive set of contacts and safety messages for the outdoor activists Adventure Activities Industry Advisory Committee The Adventure Activities Industry Advisory Committee (AAIAC), is the sector’s lead body for safety in adventure activities. It is representative of a wide range of stakeholders from the UK adventure activities sector and is supported by the Institute for Outdoor Learning. info@adventureactivityassociates.co.uk If…
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Footwear is the ultimate Foundation of our Personal Kit.
Footwear is the essential gear that grounds me, supporting every step I take across diverse and challenging terrains. It’s not just an accessory; it’s a critical investment in my overall physical and mental well-being. Without the right footwear, even the most meticulously planned adventure can be derailed, as comfort, stability, and resilience are crucial for pushing forward. Since the age…
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Ultimate Guide to the Three-Layered Clothing System
As someone who loves exploring the outdoors, especially in cold weather, I’ve found that the three-layer clothing system is a tried-and-true strategy for effective layering. This method ensures that I stay warm, dry, and comfortable, allowing me to enjoy my activities without feeling the biting chill. By wearing a base layer to wick away moisture, a middle layer for insulation,…
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Essential Survival Gear for Treks and More
Here’s my take on essential survival gear for treks and other adventures—though keep in mind, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all list. Every journey is different, and your gear should always be tailored to your specific needs. No matter how much you prepare, unexpected challenges like unplanned overnights, sudden bad weather, or injuries can arise. From my own experiences, I’ve put together…
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Orienteering : Best Introduction to Survival Skills for Adventurers
Orienteering is a fantastic way to introduce aspiring adventurers to the beauty of the great outdoors while also helping them develop essential survival skills. It perfectly combines the thrill of wild running with a meaningful purpose. It is an outdoor adventure sport that combines navigation and racing, where participants use a map and compass to find a series of checkpoints…
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‘Having both Feet on the Ground’ is to be a Sensible and Practical Person
“Having both feet on the ground” or groundedness is being firmly rooted in the present, with a clear sense of your values and purpose, allowing you to navigate challenges with confidence and resilience. It refers to a state of being firmly connected to yourself and the present moment, both mentally and emotionally. It’s a sense of stability and balance that…
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Unlock the Healing Power of Recovery: Transform Your Life Today
Courage to Heal : My Transitioning from addiction and receiving a cancer diagnosis to becoming an adventurer Transitioning from addiction and receiving a cancer diagnosis to becoming an adventurer has been an extraordinary and deeply transformative journey for me. It’s a path filled with overcoming both physical and mental challenges while embracing a new way of living, focused on exploration,…
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Critical items you ‘Need’ to Survive an Adventure, Electronics / Navigation, Electronics / Security, My Blog
Lost or Need Guidance – GPS-based Digital For Navigation apps
GPS: Focuses on location and navigation only. Need Guidance? Use GPS-based digital mapping and navigation hiking apps, several features and optimizations can be introduced to enhance user experience, safety, and functionality. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how these apps can be enhanced: 1. Offline Navigation & Enhanced Maps 2. Route Planning & Recommendations 3. Safety & Emergency Features 4. Advanced…
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Proving Life in Recovery is Powerful and Inspiring
“Recovery: The Courage to Heal” A powerful journey of resilience and transformation, where every step forward is a testament to strength, determination, and the unwavering belief in a brighter tomorrow. On September 28th, 2024, at the age of 76 and with 43 years of being clean and sober, I took the leap of a lifetime – skydiving from 15,000 feet.…
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Toxic Dynamics: How to Recognize and Address Harmful Relationships
Before you embark on any adventure, building or joining the right team is the foundation for success. Reflecting on my past, I’ve come to realize that, just as there are plants and bugs that harm their environment, there are people who exhibit toxic behaviours. I’ve learned that I can’t always judge or point the finger; from 17yrs to 33yrs I…
