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Writer's pictureSimon Osborne

Getting ready for the challenge

As we gear up for our ambitious expedition to wing foil around Great Britain, we wanted to share some insights into the intense preparations we’ve been undertaking. It’s been an exciting and challenging journey getting everything ready, and we are thrilled to bring you along for the ride.


Testing the Foil Drive System


A significant part of our preparation has involved testing the battery-operated propeller systems provided by our generous sponsor, Foil Drive. These systems are designed to run for about 10 kilometers, offering a crucial safety net in case the wind drops or we encounter an emergency. We’ve been putting them through their paces to ensure they perform flawlessly when we need them most. Their reliability has been reassuring, giving us confidence as we plan our route around the UK’s coastline.


Experimenting with Boards and Wings


We’ve also spent countless hours trying out different boards and wing setups to find the perfect combination for our expedition. Each setup offers unique advantages, and we are fine-tuning our choices to balance speed, stability, and endurance. This experimentation is vital to ensure we can handle the diverse conditions we’ll face along the way.


Emergency Preparedness


Safety is our top priority, so we’ve been diligently working on our emergency plans. We’ve practiced towing each other in various scenarios to ensure we can manage any unexpected situations on the water. Additionally, we’ve devised strategies for carrying all the necessary equipment, making sure everything is easily accessible and secure.


Choosing the Right Gear


Finding the right clothing for our journey has been another critical task. We’ve tested a variety of wetsuits and drysuits to determine what will keep us comfortable and protected in different weather conditions. Staying warm and dry is essential for maintaining our stamina and focus throughout the expedition.


Nutrition and Hydration


Keeping our energy levels up while out on the water is crucial. We’ve been experimenting with different ways to carry nutrition, including water and food, to ensure we stay hydrated and fueled. Portable, easy-to-access solutions are key, and we’re fine-tuning our approach to make sure we have what we need without adding unnecessary weight.


Navigation and Communication


Effective navigation and communication are vital for the success of our journey. We’ve been testing various systems and have decided to use headsets that allow us to communicate seamlessly with each other and our land support team. This setup will enable us to make quick decisions and stay in touch with our support van, ensuring they are ready to meet us each night.


Balancing Preparation with Daily Life


Preparing for this expedition while working full-time has been no small feat. Balancing our busy schedules with intense training and logistical planning has been challenging, but we are committed to making this journey a success. We are confident that, with continued effort and careful planning, we will be ready to set off in September.


We understand that the start of our expedition may be demanding, so we plan to ease ourselves into it, gradually increasing our daily distances as we build endurance and adapt to the conditions.


Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our preparations and embark on this incredible adventure. Your support and encouragement mean the world to us as we strive to make a difference through our journey.


Thank you for following our story!


Simon and Steve

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