Conquering Boundaries:

Solo World Record Journey on a Stand-Up Paddleboard - Overcoming Cardiac Illness.

From a Triple Bypass Open Heart Surgery to Ultradistance World Record in under Three Years.

Introduction & Mission:

I have etched my name in history by completing a solo, record-breaking 2677km journey on a stand-up paddleboard. Spanning the length of the Murray River in Australia and circumnavigating the great lakes of Hume, Mulwala, Alexandrina, and Albert, this expedition has pushed my drive, endurance, and determination beyond anything I had hoped or imagined. This expedition was undertaken to spread a message of advocacy and support to help others avoid catastrophic cardiac health problems.

Cardiac illness is something that in most cases is treated in a reactive way - reactive to symptoms that only often present in the latter, advanced stages. My mission is to help push as many of us as possible toward pre-emptive testing and lifestyle changes that will have us all around for longer, healthier & happier lives.

Cardiac disease simply shouldn’t be our biggest killer - and the awareness and testing for cardiac disease should be as normalised as it is with all forms of cancer and mental health.

The Expedition:

Setting off on a 14’ expedition paddleboard from Towong in the upper Murray River, I embarked on a challenging expedition through the Murray River, Australia’s longest river system. Navigating the vast expanse of waterways, I encountered ever-changing landscapes and unpredictable conditions that demanded unwavering focus and resilience.

A Journey of Solitude:

Undertaken without the presence of a support crew, I had no choice but to embrace solitude and self-reliance throughout the 99-day expedition. I faced physical and mental challenges, braving the elements and pushing my limits to achieve this World Record. Logistics and planning were the backbone of this success.

Navigating the Big Lakes:

In addition to the Murray River, I circumnavigated the majestic lakes of Hume, Mulwala, Alexandrina, and Albert. These vast bodies of water presented their own unique set of obstacles and required strategic navigation to avoid danger in high winds. Against the backdrop of breathtaking scenery, I adapted my approach and then pushed ahead, undeterred by fatigue or doubt.

The Triumph:

After months of paddling (on my feet the entire time), I stepped onto the sandy ocean beach at the conclusion of this epic journey - a truly surreal feeling.

For anyone with a significant illness, I wanted to reinforce the idea that it's okay to dare to dream big. That planning and vision, connected with action and consistency lay the foundation for significant achievements.

Legacy and Inspiration:

My hope is that this record, expedition, and message create some ripples that go out into the world to help normalise two key things:

1. personal pre-emptive lifestyle changes around rest, exercise, stress, nutrition & drug use.

2. to help normalise regular and comprehensive cardiac health checks that address all aspects of cardiac health.

Conclusion:

In just 99 days, I rewrote the boundaries of what is possible for myself, and in some way for the broader world.

That a dad, with a fairly regular way of life, can come back from a near-death experience and do something significant, and hopefully help others at the same time.

Work on the foundations of your health & get tested early, especially if you have a family history of cardiac illness.