Around Ireland 2011
Completed - new record 25 days
16 May 2011 - Jeff Allen and Harry Whelan completed the circumnavigation of Ireland in a new record time of 25 days.
Around Ireland 2011 Blog VideoIt is not that often that you come across the details of forthcoming attempts on records. But an upcoming attempt to improve on the record for the sea kayak Circumnavigation of Ireland is one that caught my eye.
The current record of 33 days was set back in 1990 by Dermot Blount, Brian Fanning, Karl Heery and Mick O'Meara. These guys are no paddling slouches; it won't be an easy record to better.
However, Jeff Allen, Chris Millington and Harry Whelan are now in training for an attempt on the record. They hope to begin their attempt in late spring/early summer 2011.The 'new boys' already have quite a paddling pedigree:
- Jeff has made a name as a wide ranging and experienced expedition sea paddler who is also an authority on sea kayak safety and incident management, with numerous published articles to his name.
- Harry has notable experience of long distance expeditions. He has already completed a solo circumnavigation of Ireland and also the fastest team circumnavigation of the UK (with Phil Clegg and Barry Shaw). Harry trains on the Thames and can usually be found surfing some sort of wash through central London.
- Chris also has a variety of expedition paddling behind him. The list includes trips in the UK, Turkey and Cyprus but top has to be a team circumnavigation of both East and West Falkland in the South Atlantic. (Unfortunately Chris had to withdraw due to personal reasons - 6 April 11)
Personally I have been intrigued to see how their individual approaches to training & preparation developed and now they are under way how that prep pans out on the ground. Interesting stuff.
You can follow their daily progress on the Ireland 2011 Blog with Video here and further details on the Expedition Paddler website.
The guys are also aiming to raise money for their chosen charity - Ovarian Cancer Action. If you wish to you can donate here.
Good luck gents, I hope the weather is kind.