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They helped me around to their cottage, approximately 300 yards away, where I was offered a cup of tea-my first hot substance in 74 days. While I was drinking the tea, the helicopter landed in a nearby field. Jim and the air crew jumped out and escorted me to the helicopter. The kayak was secured in the harbour on a trailer and covered over, and we collected it the following day. We flew to Killybegs-the place where my friends and family had been waiting for more than three days for my arrival. The
helicopter touched down on a football pitch in Killybegs where numerous
friends, family, and the media gathered to meet me. After the initial
greetings I was taken to the local hospital for a medical check
up. The doctor was astounded by how fit and healthy I was, considering
my ordeal. Most people were impressed that I was able to walk (if
a bit wobbly at times), since I had been confined in a small area
for a relatively long period of time and was unable to use my legs
properly. The aim of the challenge was two-fold. I wanted to raise awareness and hopefully £100,000 for two childrens' hospice organizations, and to achieve the 'Everest of kayaking.' With the right boat, equipment, and mental attitude, I knew I could succeed in making a solo, unsupported crossing of the Atlantic. I felt that, due to the media's attention on the failure of the first attempt, a golden opportunity to promote the sport of kayaking was overlooked and the challenge did not get the recognition that it truly deserved. Afterword Sponsors
Welshman Peter Bray began paddling at the age of 12 and has competed in numerous endurance kayaking competitions. He served in British Army Special Forces and has been an outdoor skills instructor. |
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