Companies that have helped me on my journey
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Rowing the North Atlantic
Rowing the North Atlantic is a monumental feat that requires incredible physical and mental endurance. The North Atlantic is known for its challenging weather patterns, strong currents, and unpredictable conditions, making it one of the most demanding bodies of water to cross. On 28th Jan 2016, approaching midnight – I was sitting in my rowing position on the “Toby Wallace”, a light-weight ocean…
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Kayak The English Channel
BBC . South East Today – Evening News 25.6.2021 – I’m on the Telly!!! On the 3rd February 2021, I completed my chemotherapy treatment for Cancer and rang the Bell. Six months later 3rd August 2021 to celebrate this milestone I paddled a red kayak from Dungeness to Boulogne sporting my “Chemo Curls.” Being featured on the BBC in the…
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Sahara Desert
To me, the Sahara displays an awe-inspiring uniqueness as did the North Pole. They share extremes of contrasts yet alike in so many ways; legend, mystery and raw beauty. Both can and will kill you if you don’t respect them. The Sahara is the largest non-polar desert on our planet; 3,320,000 square miles (8,600,000 square km) If you take the wrong…
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“How I Climbed Kilimanjaro Twice, Once with a Metal Knee”
Kilimanjaro demands respect, this mighty dormant volcano, soaring from the African plains, stands as the tallest freestanding mountain globally, reaching a staggering 5,895 meters (19,341 feet) above sea level. Undertaking the challenge of conquering Kilimanjaro is not merely a physical feat; it’s a journey of personal determination and endurance. Embarking on this adventure with friends, I faced the monumental task…
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Rugby on Everest 2019
In April 2019 we trekked in the footsteps of Mallory and Irvine, up the Magic Highway’ to Mt Everest’s Advance Base Camp (ABC3) 6,500m/ 21,000 feet; which is just below the North Col to play two games of Rugby on a glacier. Myself and Lesley, trekked and played alongside, Rugby stars Lee Mears, Ollie Phillips, Shane Williams, Tamara Taylor plus 20 inspirational men…
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Harrowing Realities of Ocean Rowing
The Toby Wallace Atlantic Row – January/February 2016 Harrowing Realities of Ocean Rowing Tragedy struck in the night of February 14th. Location close to 18 29′ N 039 06′ W. over a thousand miles from land. Simon gave a loud warning shout, “big wave”. I looked up to see a monster swell coming at us fast out of the dark;…
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Adventures, Camping / Equipment & Accessories, Expeditions, Hiking / Trekking, Hiking / Trekking, My Blog, Speaking
En Route to the Top of the World – North Pole
On April 9th, 2009, I faced an extraordinary challenge—the Polar Race. At the age of 61, with 28 years of sobriety shaping my resolve, I stood alongside my teammate, 34-year-old James Trotman. Embarking on the Race to the North Pole was more than a mere contest; it was a daring expedition that served as the ultimate trial of survival in…
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Running Bowline
The Running Bowline knot stands out as a remarkably versatile and dependable knot. Crafted by looping a bowline around its own standing end, it manifests as a robust and adaptable noose. The Running Bowline knot’s strength, versatility, ease of tying, and security make it a valuable tool in numerous outdoor activities, including climbing, sailing, rescue operations, and more. Notably, its…
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Round Turn & Two Half Hitches
The round turn and two half-hitches knot is exceptionally well-suited for scenarios requiring secure attachment of a line or rope to a fixed object. The initial round turn serves to distribute the load evenly and provides friction against the support, crucial for maintaining tension and preventing slippage. This foundational element allows for the effective tightening of the line. Subsequently, the…
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Constrictor Knot
The Constrictor Knot is a versatile knot with various applications and benefits. Here are some of its primary uses and benefits: Overall, the Constrictor Knot is a valuable knot to learn for anyone involved in activities such as camping, boating, fishing, hiking, or general DIY tasks, as it offers a secure and reliable way to fasten and bind objects together.…
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Trucker’s Hitch
The Trucker’s Hitch is a versatile knot often used in camping, sailing, and, as the name suggests, by truckers for securing cargo. Its primary purpose is to create a secure and tight line for securing loads or creating tension in a line. Tying Guide One of the primary uses of the Trucker’s Hitch is to secure cargo on trucks, trailers,…
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Knut Friction Hitch
Knut Friction Hitch, is a type of binding knot that is designed to grip an object tightly. The Knut Friction Hitch is primarily used for binding objects together, such as bundles of sticks or securing a rope to a pole or post. One of the key features of this knot is its ability to grip tightly around an object. The…
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Marlinspike
The Marlinspike Hitch offers a clever solution for securely attaching a rod, bar, or pole to a rope, effectively creating a dependable handle. Commonly used in sailing and other activities where a strong handle is needed. It’s often employed by sailors when they need to create a temporary handle for tasks like pulling lines under tension or securing a line…
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Angler’s Loop / Perfection Loop
The Angler’s Loop, (Perfection Loop) is a knot specifically designed to create a stable and secure fixed loop. The Angler’s Loop boasts unparalleled reliability, serving as a steadfast anchor in various fishing scenarios. Its strength and stability are particularly evident when handling delicate or slick fishing lines, distinguishing it as a standout among loop knots. Notably, it surpasses many counterparts…
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Klemheist Knot
The Klemheist Knot finds frequent applications in various adventurous activities such as climbing, mountaineering, search and rescue, and caving. Its primary purpose is to facilitate ascending and descending on a fixed rope, particularly on steep cliffs. While the Prusik Knot is a viable option in such scenarios, the Klemheist Knot stands out for its remarkable ease of adjustment and sliding…
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Zeppelin Bend
Zeppelin bend, also known as the Rosendahl bend, is used to join two ropes or cords together end-to-end. It’s comprised of two symmetrical overhand knots that join together. This kind of bungee cord knot can be used to create a loop of bungee cord (like a large rubber band) or tie together a rope and a bungee cord. Tying Guide…
