Russell Belcher
The Natural Elements Circumnavigation of Britain 2010
Fundraising for Motor Neurone Disease Association
Story
www.openhorizons-expeditions.com
Like everything it started with a dream that turned into a bit of an idea. Then we got together had a chat and now look where we are. Aaron Price and Russell Belcher, two 22 year old outdoor instructors from different parts of the world, come together to circumnavigate Britain in a Sea Kayak. Not only that but we believe we are going to be the first pair to attempt this trip in the Autumn/Winter conditions as well as being the first long distance kayak expedition to be harnessing the wind with a power kite.
We have had a few people look at us a bit strangely when we start to mention these facts, but what completely new and different idea wasn't looked at strangely by at least a few people. We are not doing this for a race or any records, its simply going to be a huge personal adventure while more importantly raising the awareness and some money for our chosen charity the Motor Neuron Disease Association.
The reason we have picked the MNDA is because Russell's uncle died of Motor Neuron Disease four years ago. They were so brilliant at helping not only his uncle but also the entire family. Since then Russ has always wanted to give something back. When the right idea and paddling partner come along this is what we get. A new adventure that will alow us to talk and spread the message to so many people all over the world.
At the moment we are in the planning and training stages, but we already have some people we have to thank. Firstly to all the people who have and are going to donate to the charity. With out you guys there wouldn't be much of a reason for us to do this trip.
And then there are the people that have sponsored us and helped us with the trip so far. We have 3 major sponsors so far and are looking at getting that list to grow so we can spend less money on the trip which therefore means we can donate more to the MNDA.
Atlantis Kayaks - Robin and his team from Canada are in the process of making us an amazing custom kayak that will be perfect for the job. If you are looking at getting a sea kayak Atlantis are up there as the best in the world so to get one built and given to us was a massive help.
Adrenalin Head - Neil at Adrenalin Head is not only giving us 2 kites and everything we need to get them in the air, but also donating his time and knowledge to make this world first as easy and safe as possible. Giving us professional coaching sessions and kites to practice with. We could not have asked for more.
Look What We Found - These guys make some of the nicest and best adventure food you could ever want. They are kindly donating to the trip our main meal for each day of the trip. What a relief to know we will have good and tasty food at the end of a long hard day.
Any donation no matter how big or small will go a huge way to the MNDA and our trip so please give what you can to make all those long hard days paddling a little bit more worth it.
We look forward to seeing some of you on the water
Cheers
Open Horizons
Aaron and Russ