A team of paraplegic and able-bodied sea kayakers will be the first inclusive team to embark on a 1000 mile, three month journey following the historical ‘Inside Passage’ along British Columbia’s coastline to the fjords and glacial mountains of Alaska.
The expedition begins in early June 2003 and successful completion will see the team back in the UK in late August. The paddling team of 10 can be assured of a comfortable sleep with five Terra Nova Equipment full specification expedition tents designed to withstand the unpredictable weather the group will encounter during the expedition. The company is keen to back this expedition, as 2003 is the European Year of the Disabled.
This initiative was set up to encourage participation of disabled people in outdoor and adventure activities across the UK. Terra Nova Equipment sales and marketing director Carolyn Budding said:
“We are pleased to be involved with this expedition and year of the disabled. It demonstrates what can be achieved by a group of people who have the will to succeed. This is a demanding expedition and we wish the team every success.”
Team member Alan Thompson is very grateful for Terra Nova Equipment’s support. Alan said:
“This challenge provides a real chance to illustrate the possibilities and opportunities open to disabled people and of the benefits to be gained from an inclusive approach, not only in expeditions and fieldwork, but in the wider context. “We are delighted that Terra Nova decided to back us, as without their support we would not be able to realise this adventure. We need the very best equipment to deal with the elements throughout our journey and we know that Terra Nova offers premier products that really work.”
The team’s trip is being supported by Scottish based charity, Interventure, who promote inclusive outdoor adventures for disabled people. The progress of the team’s expedition can be followed on the Interventure website.
