Kayak 4 Heroes is a team of five veterans who successfully achieved a world first by becoming the first adaptive team to complete the iconic British challenge of Land’s End to John O’ Groats.
By surfski - Epic V8 Doubles.
In July 2021, the team set off on the 1,400-kilometre journey from Land’s End in Cornwall. They knew they would tackle some of the United Kingdom’s toughest waters before arriving at John O’ Groats in Scotland. In addition to the challenging route, the team had to work together to overcome their respective injuries. They successfully completed the journey in 21 days, (16 days of paddling).
To mitigate the physical constraints caused by their injuries of crossing the shore break the team used a support rib and relay system, with at least one V8 double crew paddling at any one time. Jim accompanied and paddled with the team for all the off shore and Scottish sections. Chris Powell skippered the rob and Liz Winfield provided shore support.
In the process, Kayak 4 Heroes raised over £110,000 for charities supporting our nation’s military veterans. They also beat some demons and doubters.
Paddling Land's End to John O'Groats - 21 days, 1400kms. What's next?
Jonny - Former Army Officer and ultra-marathon runner, Jonny was paralysed down his left side by a brain bleed. He is now a cross country skier, climber and endurance athlete.
Luke - Former RAF Regiment Gunner, was seriously wounded during operations in Afghanistan after stepping on an IED during a routing foot patrol. In the face of adversity, the determined athlete fought back to become a stronger, and now respected, international competitor, competing in some of the worlds most arduous marathons.
Darren - Former mountaineer and Army Reservist, Darren was involved in a serious climbing accident which paralysed him from the chest down. Kayaking has been the most important part of his physical and emotional recovery and has enabled him to find strength through adversity.
Carl - Carl served in the Army as a member of the Royal Army Physical Training Corps for much of his career. Despite being on the end of a career-ending spinal injury, which has required numerous surgeries, Carl is an accomplished athlete and has gravitated towards endurance cycling in recent years.
Ben - In Jan 2019 Ben sustained life changing injuries after being shot numerous times and recieved blast / fragmentation injuries to both arms and upper torso. He also has injuries to both legs and suffers from hearing difficulties and PTSD. The AFPST and K4H have allowed Ben to focus on getting back into the great outdoors and looking forward to competing as a para-athlete.
Some of the crew with Ollie Ollerton
Photo credits: Ellie @Wanderlust Action Films
To find out more read Kayak For Heroes
