Epic wheelchair tripster drops in at Strathspey
Adam Stanton-Wharmby (38) is attempting a world record trip from Lands End to John O'Groats – by wheelchair.
He told the Strathy: "I have cerebral palsy, which in my case means I am unable to walk and have no use of my left arm.
"Since 2017 I've been raising money for a number of charities by completing a series of wheelchair marathon challenges where I have driven my wheelchair from city to city. Previous challenges have included the London Marathon route, Birmingham to Manchester and Cheltenham to the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, following the national cycle routes.
"I am now attempting my biggest challenge – trying to beat a world record!"
During the pandemic his wheel power challenges were postponed, but with restrictions lifted Adam has taken on Lands’ End to John O'Groats and enjoyed his brief stay in Badenoch this week.
"My total trip should be completed in approximately 22 days, beating the current world record," he said.
"This time I am raising money for Whizz-Kidz, a charity very close to my heart.
"Whizz-Kidz is the working name of The Movement for Non-Mobile Children. They work tirelessly to transform the lives of wheelchair users across the UK, supporting them to become confident and independent young adults.
"I have volunteered for them as wheelchair skills trainer, supporting the ambassador clubs and Whizz-Kidz camps.
"For this specific challenge I have had my chair upgraded by some very special engineers. During my last challenge from Cheltenham to Silverstone, a Formula One charity, Grid4Good got in touch with the Mercedes Formula One Team who then offered to modify my wheelchair to help me to complete my next route.
"This is the first ever wheelchair to be worked on in this way by a Formula One Team!
"I am now the excited and proud owner of a purpose made-to-measure wheelchair.
"This may seem a big ask, but without the help of people and organisations this far, I would not have been able to do the challenges I have set myself."
Strathy readers can check out his progress on Instagram @challenge.adam and twitter @challengeadam83.
