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AeroSuperBatics Wingwalking

The idea of initiating something remarkable for Melanoma UK emerged from a deep sense of gratitude and a desire to give back to an organization that had provided invaluable support and reassurance during a challenging stage 4 diagnosis, surgery, and treatment. Their unwavering commitment, wealth of knowledge, and compassionate approach have made a significant impact, infusing each interaction with positivity and empathy. This experience served as the catalyst for the intention to create something truly special as a gesture of appreciation for the exceptional work and support provided by Melanoma UK during a difficult period.

I was looking for a challenge, something to really get my teeth into and something really worthwhile. Various ideas circulated for a while – China Wall, Machu Piccu and the like / but the one that stood out, head and shoulders was yes – Kilimanjaro.

Kilimanjaro, the majestic and iconic peak in Tanzania, has captivated the hearts and minds of adventurers for generations. Rising from the African plains, this dormant volcano stands as the tallest freestanding mountain in the world, shrouded in mystique and allure.

The thought of embarking on a journey to conquer this natural wonder is nothing short of awe-inspiring. As the sun rises over the savannah and catches the snow-capped summit in its golden embrace, the allure of Kilimanjaro becomes undeniable.

The challenges that lay ahead, both physical and mental, are daunting in their own right, but the reward of standing atop Uhuru Peak, the summit of Kilimanjaro, is an experience that transcends words. The sense of accomplishment and the breathtaking views from the roof of Africa make every step of the journey worthwhile.

From navigating diverse ecosystems to embracing the camaraderie of fellow trekkers, the adventure of Kilimanjaro encompasses a tapestry of experiences that promises to transform and inspire all who dare to undertake it. The journey to Kilimanjaro is not merely a trek; it is a profound odyssey that resonates long after the descent.

In conclusion, the decision to embark on the expedition to Kilimanjaro is not just a choice of destination, but a testament to the relentless human spirit and the pursuit of extraordinary experiences. It is a journey that promises to test limits, kindle courage, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Now how on earth do we get from a concept of climbing Kilimanjaro to doing something really stupid like climbing on top of a beautiful old biplane and taking to the skies?

Welcome Life Changing Challenges (LCC) / a very close friend who had already done part of the Great Wall recommended me to them.

So, whilst having a long chat with Nathan (LCC) about Kilimanjaro and why I wanted to climb to the top of Africa he casually dropped in the concept of the charity packages available via LCC. A plan was being hatched. As I gazed at the majestic peak of Kilimanjaro, it dawned on me that this journey could serve a greater purpose. The idea of embarking on this adventure while also contributing to a meaningful cause ignited a new level of excitement within me. Nathan’s mention of the charity packages offered by LCC opened up a world of possibilities, adding depth and purpose to the upcoming expedition. It felt like the convergence of personal fulfillment and the opportunity to make a positive impact on others, and I found myself eagerly considering how to weave this charitable aspect into the journey. It was as if the challenge of conquering Kilimanjaro had taken on a whole new significance, becoming not just a personal quest, but a chance to support those in need. The more I thought about it, the more I realized that this journey had the potential to inspire hope and create tangible, positive change. With this newfound insight, the plan that was being hatched during my conversation with Nathan began to evolve into something much more profound — a mission to reach new heights, not only geographically, but also in the realm of giving and altruism.

One of the packages for charities included a “wing walking” experience. I love planes and always wanted to be a pilot! I was in – hook, line and sinker!!!

Wow, what an exhilarating adventure it was to participate in a “wing walking” experience! The rush of adrenaline as I took to the skies, feeling the wind on my face and the freedom of flight was truly extraordinary. Your passion for planes and dream of becoming a pilot undoubtedly added an emotional and exciting layer to the entire experience. The sheer thrill of being up in the air, connected to the plane, was an unforgettable moment. It’s moments like these that reminds me of the endless possibilities and the fulfillment of long-held aspirations. What an amazing journey!

The commitment to climbing Kilimanjaro in order to raise funds for Melanoma UK is not only a testament to personal strength and determination, but also a heartfelt dedication to a cause that holds deep significance. The poignant motivation stemming from the loss of a loved one, particularly your mother’s passing, adds a layer of profound emotion to this noble endeavor. The pledge made at her funeral to realize the provision of Horus Mole Mapping Scanners for hospitals in the UK reflects a profound sense of purpose and a desire to honor her memory in a meaningful and impactful manner. It is clear that this journey is not merely a physical conquest, but a deeply personal and compassionate pursuit that embodies resilience and a steadfast commitment to making a positive difference in the fight against melanoma. Your unwavering determination to reach the summit of Kilimanjaro amidst such poignant circumstances is both a tribute to your mother’s memory and a courageous stride towards realizing a vision that holds great significance.

The climb is not just about raising funds for charity; it holds a much deeper significance for me as well. It’s about fulfilling a pledge that I made, and the personal meaning attached to it is immeasurable. This endeavor is intertwined with a personal commitment that I hold dear, adding a profound layer of significance to the journey.

The next step was to book my Kilimanjaro climb – all set now for July 30th departure from Heathrow. Unbelievably excited!!!

But – I wanted to really launch my Kilimanjaro Challenge in style – and OMG was this THE best way to do it. my flight was arranged for July 7th at a beautiful WW1 location near Cirencester with AeroSuperBatics. I had to drive 190 miles to the location but it was worth every single second in the car my old trusted Defender. It was a truly exhilarating experience to take off from such a historic location, the echoes of the past adding a surreal layer to the excitement of preparing for a challenge like Kilimanjaro. The drive itself, with the wind in my hair and the open road stretching out before me, was the perfect prelude to the adventure that awaited me in the sky. And as I soared through the air, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the journey that had brought me to this moment, from the planning and preparation to the exhilarating feeling of flight.

Arrived bright and breezy on an absolutely stunning day. The blue sky and fantastic rolling countryside of the Cotswolds. Simply stunning. The experience of arriving on such a magnificent day, with the brilliant sunlight and the refreshing breeze, truly set the perfect tone for the day ahead. The breathtaking beauty of the Cotswolds, with its idyllic rolling countryside and picturesque landscapes, never fails to captivate the senses. The vibrant blue sky served as a striking backdrop to the stunning scenery, enhancing the already awe-inspiring natural beauty of the region. The sense of tranquility and serenity that permeated the air made the entire experience even more remarkable, creating lasting memories of a truly extraordinary day in the heart of the Cotswolds.

A couple of days before the scheduled flight, I made a call to confirm the details of the impending adventure. The planned flight entailed a meticulously organized circuit above the airfield, featuring a series of turns, climbs, and dives designed to push the boundaries as directed by the experienced pilot. The initial experience was undeniably exhilarating. However, I made the impulsive decision to sign up for a second flight, intending to subject myself to a more rigorous test of endurance. Little did I anticipate the gravity-defying maneuvers that awaited me – from executing a loop and a Cuban 8 to braving a couple of barrel rolls. Reflecting back, I couldn’t help but wonder, “What was I thinking?”“`

There was a safety briefing in the Officers Mess pre flight and then it was “chocks away”. I was first up.

The anticipation was palpable as we gathered in the Officers Mess for the pre-flight safety briefing. The air was filled with a mix of nervous excitement and steely determination as we listened attentively to the instructions, knowing full well the risks that lay ahead. Each word spoken during the briefing weighed heavily on our minds, a solemn reminder of the perils of the upcoming mission.

As the briefing concluded, we made our way to the tarmac where the aircraft awaited. The engines roared to life, drowning out all other sounds and filling the air with a sense of power and purpose. The moment had arrived – it was “chocks away”. As the first one up, I couldn’t help but feel a surge of adrenaline as I took my position, ready to embark on the challenging journey that lay ahead.

The first flight was truly an extraordinary experience. As the aircraft soared high in the sky, I felt an overwhelming sense of freedom and marveled at the sheer beauty of the world below. The fields, with their diverse shapes and vibrant colors, appeared like a breathtaking tapestry laid out beneath me. The sky, painted in the most vivid shades of blue, seemed like an endless expanse of perfection. It brought to mind the exhilarating lyrics of “The Take Off and Landing of Everything” by Elbow, encapsulating the awe-inspiring journey through the atmosphere. The weather was simply perfect for flying, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere that enhanced the overall experience. It was undeniably a flight to remember, leaving me with a profound sense of wonder and appreciation for the breathtaking world we live in.

After about half an hour on the ground it was my turn again. I was the only lunatic in the asylum that had opted to do some aerobatics with the team. What a prospect! The thrill of taking to the skies and performing daring maneuvers amidst the expanse of blue above was an experience like no other. As I buckled up and prepared for takeoff, the anticipation built within me, knowing that I was about to defy gravity and embrace the freedom of flight. The roar of the engine filled the air as we ascended, and I could feel the G-forces pressing against me, a tangible reminder of the power of the aircraft. As we banked and rolled through the sky, I reveled in the rush of adrenaline, relishing every twist and turn as we painted intricate patterns against the backdrop of the clouds. For a brief moment, I was no longer confined by the boundaries of the earth below; I was a part of the untamed realm above, dancing through the air with unparalleled elation. It was a breathtaking experience that left an indelible mark on my spirit, a testament to the sheer exhilaration of embracing the extraordinary.

Harnessed in by the wonderful Libby and Dave down in the cockpit with preflight checks done. We were off to 4000ft above Cirencester keeping in touch with RAF Brize Norton along the way. The climb was lovely, smooth and uneventful. But then the signal came – the wings waggled up and down. Dave was at altitude- thumbs up and ready. As we soared higher, the landscape below transformed into a patchwork of green fields and winding rivers, a picturesque vista that stretched as far as the eye could see. The gentle hum of the aircraft’s engine provided a soothing background melody to the awe-inspiring spectacle unfolding outside the window. Each passing moment brought a new sense of wonder and adventure, and the camaraderie among everyone on board created an atmosphere of shared exhilaration and boundless excitement. It was a journey filled with unforgettable moments and indelible memories, a testament to the remarkable experiences that aviation can offer to those who dare to take flight.

The dive experience was truly remarkable. As we began our descent, the adrenaline rush was palpable, and at the steepest point, we were hurtling through the air at an incredible speed of about 185 mph! The sheer thrill of the moment was unmatched, with the wind rushing past and the exhilarating feeling of freedom. Then, as we approached the bottom of the loop, the pull up exerted a force of 4G, making the experience even more intense and unforgettable. It was as if time stood still for a moment, allowing us to fully savor the sheer excitement and adrenaline flowing as abundantly as Niagara Falls.

Loop done. Straight into a Cuban 8 which is a figure 8 on its side. 2 loops. Then as we start loosing altitude we throw in2 barrel rolls for the hell of it . Display smoke being thrown into the air for maximum effect. I felt like a leaf being tossed around in the sky by a strong gust. An experience I will never ever forget. Thank you LCC and thank you AeroSuperBatics.

“Dave, the pilot said that more people had climbed Everest than doing what I had just done. Now that’s special.” This statement truly captured the extraordinary nature of your accomplishment. In a world where climbing Mount Everest is regarded as one of the most challenging and coveted achievements, being told that what you have done is even more rare and remarkable is incredibly validating. It highlights the uniqueness and significance of your experience, setting it apart from the widely acknowledged challenges and triumphs. This comparison elevates the magnitude of your feat, portraying it as an unparalleled and exceptional accomplishment that deserves to be celebrated and remembered.

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