<![CDATA[Pressat Main Newswire]]> https://pressat.co.uk/rss/ <![CDATA[Pressat Main Newswire]]> https://pressat.co.uk/media/site/logo.png https://pressat.co.uk/rss/ en-gb Copyright: (C) Pressat Pressat <![CDATA[ UK explorer achieves THIRD ‘world first’ - completes amazing year-long feat at end of 4,000-mile Yangtze River on 10 August ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/uk-explorer-achieves-third-world-first-completes-amazing-year-long-feat-at-end-of-4000-mile-yangtze-river-on-10-august-adf38824ffab24e4abd4c05b3c63ce43/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/uk-explorer-achieves-third-world-first-completes-amazing-year-long-feat-at-end-of-4000-mile-yangtze-river-on-10-august-adf38824ffab24e4abd4c05b3c63ce43/ Tuesday 30 July, 2019
Ash Dykes (28) arrives in Shanghai on the 10th of August having traversed Yangtze River in China in what is his third world first
At 24 traversed 1,500-mile length of Mongolia, with 18 stone survival trailer, solo and unsupported, in just 78 days
At 26 trekked 1,600-mile through Madagascar, summiting the eight highest mountains along the way. Contracted deadliest strain of Malaria, held up at gun point, avoided bandits, crossed crocodile-infested waters on self-built rafts and hacked way through near-impenetrable jungle
At 28, traversed Yangtze River – the third longest in the world -where he was followed for two days by a pack of wolves, walked at 5,100m altitude in temperatures dropping to -20°C
Partnered with World Wildlife Foundation (WWF) and Water To Go in conservation efforts

British explorer, Ash Dykes (28), is set complete his third ‘world first’ on the 10th of August 2019 when he arrives in Shanghai, having been the first person ever to traverse the 4,000-mile Yangtze River in China on foot.


The expedition has not only been a huge personal achievement, but has also seen Ash get involved in several important conservation projects along the way including initiatives for World Wildlife Foundation and Water To Go.


Ash has overcome many difficult and extreme physical and mental challenges to achieve this third world first. At the very beginning, the source of the Yangtze River (at 5,100m almost the same height as Mount Everest base camp) was difficult to reach and four of his team left the expedition before it even began due to altitude sickness and the very real possibility of bear and wolf attacks. It wasn’t long after they left that Ash was followed for two days by a pack of wolves, which had killed someone only 24 hours previously.


In addition, Ash faced extreme weather conditions and at the start of his trek, he tackled blizzards and temperatures as low as -20°C while at the end of his journey he endured extreme heat of up to 40°C.


Commenting on his latest expedition, Ash said: “This is more than a personal achievement; it is unlocking human potential and showcasing that in a world where every corner of the planet is occupied by people, there are still things that haven’t been done. I’ve shared my journeys with millions around the world, with the message ‘if I can, then you can too’. We must enjoy this world we live in, but also highlight issues, showcase the positives and most importantly, protect it.


“Of course, this is far from just a challenging journey, it’s a cultural one. I’ve been extremely fortunate to experience the wonderful hospitality, traditions and cultures of the people of China, both rural and urban, in all its diversity. China has really taken me to its heart and I’m overwhelmed by the support I’ve received across the country.


“I’ve worked with the Green Development Foundation, WWF and many other organisations and it’s been a privilege to capture and share their work.


“Throughout my journey, I’ve also been able to take note of the amount of plastics and pollution that I’ve seen from source to sea. The good news is that I’ve also seen a huge increase in knowledge and understanding within the communities, towns and cities along the way. People are aware of the damage being caused to their water sources and are now actively changing their ways for the better - it’s inspiring to see.


“Having had huge support from the Chinese media and people, this has not only been one of my most ambitious journeys, but also most enjoyable. It’s been amazing to be able to share the whole journey on my social media, including Instagram and Facebook, as one of the most interactive world firsts.”


Ash’s world first along the Yangtze River follows world firsts in Mongolia and Madagascar.


In 2014, aged just 24, Ash became the first recorded person to walk the length of Mongolia from west to east, solo and unsupported. He trekked 1,500 miles over the Altai Mountains, through the Gobi Desert and across the Mongolian Steppe, while pulling 120kg/18st of survival supplies on a homemade trailer - in just 78 days!


Two years later in 2016, he became the first recorded person to traverse the length of inland Madagascar, trekking 1,600 miles in just 155 days and climbing eight of the country’s highest mountains. Here, he contracted the deadliest strain of Malaria, was held up by the military, avoided bandits, received spider bites, built rafts to cross dangerous, crocodile-infested waters and hacked his way through near-impenetrable jungle to achieve his goal.


Ash concludes: “This trip was extremely challenging but truly incredible and the people I met along the way have spurred me on and made it all worthwhile.


“We’ve captured the whole journey, as it was professionally filmed and we are preparing for an international TV commission. I’d also like to thank all those who joined me along the way and my teams for showing such immense support. I will be sad to leave the country, but I’ll be returning to China in September for an Asia wide speaking tour.


“When I return to the UK again I’ll start working on some exciting new projects – so watch this space!”


To find out more about Ash Dykes visit www.ashdykes.com
or Instagram @ash_dykes


-Ends-


For further media information contact Paula Hunter on 07739 989915 or paula@prhunter.co.uk


Notes to Editors:


Conservation Efforts


China



Partnered with the China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation (CBCGDF), who help to protect the water sources of China.
Showcased the work of WWF and its work along the Yangtze River (https://www.wwf.org.uk/where-we-work/places/yangtze)
Yibin Fishery Department, who help protect the species living in the Yangtze, like the finless porpoise dolphin, Yangtze sturgeon and Chinese sturgeon.
Water-To-Go.. used bottles on all expeditions, to have access to fresh drinking water, with the 3 in 1 built in water filtration system and to reduce my use of plastic, whilst educating and encouraging others to do the same.

Mongolia


Helped to raise awareness of climate change and the effect it has on the nomadic way of life, while raising funds for the Red Cross, who help to supply the nomads livestock with shelter and the locals with Ger insulation, through the very difficult and harsh winters.


Madagascar


Partnered with the Lemur Conservation Network, which has 60 organisations on the ground, helping to protect and preserve the unique biodiversity.


Bringing lemurs back from the brink of extinction, planting more trees, expanding national parks, providing locals with good means of work and the younger generation with good education.


UK


Ash is UK Ambassador for Malaria No More UK and Madagascar Tourism


Danger Points


China



10 of 16 people leaving the mission due to altitude sickness/fear of wildlife
Source of Yangtze so isolated
Altitude
Freezing temperatures
Bears: lots of warning from locals and Ash was shown photos and videos of horrific attacks. The bears were now coming down from the mountains, because it was too cold for them and they were searching for food before they go into hibernation.
Wolves: followed Ash for two days right after killing a local lady.
Wild yak: had to set off Chinese firecrackers to keep them away
Landslides
Floods
Police
River crossings
Hot season

Mongolia:


Three weeks over the Altai mountains (3,000 meters), five weeks across the Gobi Desert and three weeks over the Mongolian Steppe.Nicknamed by the locals “The Lonely Snow Leopard”, due to the wolves keeping a respectful distance from Ash, as they do the snow leopards.Snow blizzardsIsolationLonelinessWolvesSandstormsAlmost died in the Gobi Desert, running low on water and suffering severely with heat exhaustion (heat stroke too, which is usually fatal).Had to break down goals and only manage what he could visualise, which 100 meters. 100 meters walking, then five minutes under his trailer hiding from the sun, repetitively for four days, until he made it to a small community. *Only just made it and took eight days painful recovery before pushing on.


Madagascar



Bandits
Held at gun point by the military
Had the deadliest strain of malaria with only three hours to go, before slipping into a coma. Pushed on and just made it to medical help.
Leeches
Spiders
Crossing croc infested rivers
Hunting and gathering in the jungle
Cyclone season
Hacking through almost impenetrable jungle
Building rafts using natural resources
Crossing rivers in cyclone season and almost losing my photographer during a night-time river crossing


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Additional Contact(s):
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http://www.ashdykes.com 30 Jul 2019 14:03:08 GMT Charities & non-profits Environment & Nature Health Leisure & Hobbies Lifestyle & Relationships Men's Interest Sport Travel & Tourism
<![CDATA[ British adventurer reaches safety at Yangtze expedition halfway point ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/british-adventurer-reaches-safety-at-yangtze-expedition-halfway-point-ec59b3c826f25a1cd84ad3d88bc0dc67/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/british-adventurer-reaches-safety-at-yangtze-expedition-halfway-point-ec59b3c826f25a1cd84ad3d88bc0dc67/ Monday 14 January, 2019

Death-defying British adventurer Ash Dykes has reached safety at the halfway point of his mammoth world first expedition, having faced immense threats to his safety whilst attempting to walk the entire length of China’s Yangtze River in just a year.

This is no mean feat, as the Yangtze is the longest river to flow through a single nation and stretches almost 4000 miles from west to east China, through eleven provinces, diverse ecosystems and multiple major cities including Chongquing and Shanghai.

It has taken Ash 136 days and 2000 miles of intense trekking across some of the world’s most dangerous and remote provinces to reach the halfway point in the small Chinese city of Panzhihua, having set off from the Yangtze River’s true, scientific source in the Tibetan Plateau on 26th August last year.

In one of the few remaining ‘firsts’ to be attempted by man, Ash and his team have faced huge challenges on this first half of the expedition, with eight out of nine of Ash’s teammates dropping out mid-mission due to injury, illness or fears for their safety.

The mission got off to a difficult start when Ash’s Tibetan guide suffered the serious effects of altitude sickness on the way to the source of the river and required urgent medical attention, delaying the expedition’s start date. Since then, bears travelling down the mountain to find food before hibernation have posed the greatest threat to Ash’s life; closely followed by wolves. Ash was tracked by a pack of wolves for two days straight not long after the trek began, and has faced the very real threat of aggressive wild yaks, cobras, and giant hornets along the way.

Other natural elements have also made this challenge particularly immense, with temperatures as low as -20 degrees Celsius, snow blizzards, glacial river crossings, and landslides pushing Ash to his limit and, at times, forcing him to detour and lose precious days.

Although the most remote, dangerous and uncertain leg of the expedition is now behind Ash, the remainder of the trek will pose threats of different kinds. Rather than bears, wolves and wilderness, Ash will encounter heavily populated cities and some of the most polluted areas of any river in the world. The hot, rainy season means the river is more likely to flood, and as the river widens so do its tributaries, meaning crossings will be more difficult and could lead to further detours and delays.

Despite this, Ash remains positive. He said:

“Without a doubt, Mission Yangtze has been the biggest challenge I’ve undertaken to date. Physically I was as prepared as I could be, but mentally it’s hard to get ready for the harsh and remote landscapes, sub zero temperatures, and the difficulties these bring. I have trekked through some of the most breathtaking and unspoilt parts of the world, but I’ve never felt so vulnerable to the elements and predators as I have done over the past few months.

China is an unbelievably diverse country, with each province I’ve crossed bringing unique terrains, climates, wildlife and challenges. I was actually stopped on five occasions by the police, as government officials worried for my security and safety. Despite having to retrace 40 miles worth of the trek after being detained, we managed to push on with the backing of the Qinghai Government and CBCGDF, and really appreciate their concern.

Despite the challenges, I’ve been completely overwhelmed by the kindness and hospitality shown by the people I’ve encountered so far. I always say that the locals make or break an adventure, and so far the Chinese have been amazing. It’s been hugely rewarding living and integrating with locals, meeting schools and families, and learning about their lives and traditions.

The Yangtze has also been incredibly clean so far, as the Tibetan people will not so much as fish out of the river, let alone throw rubbish in it. I know the second half will be far more polluted, but it’s a common misconception that the entire Yangtze River is being destroyed by the effects of industrialisation. I’m really interested to see how China’s wild west compares with its more industrial and densely populated eastern region.

The expedition hasn’t been straightforward but it’s been an incredible experience so far, and I’m really looking forward to seeing and learning even more about this amazing country as I enter into the second half of the mission. Bring it on!”

You can follow Ash as he prepares for and embarks on the second half of this record-breaking challenge on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Weibo (@AshDykes) and track his progress live on www.ashdykes.com. You can also get involved by sharing your own adventures using the hashtag #MissionYangtze.

Ends




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http://www.ashdykes.com 14 Jan 2019 08:14:30 GMT Business & Finance Charities & non-profits Children & Teenagers Education & Human Resources Environment & Nature Government Leisure & Hobbies Media & Marketing Men's Interest Travel & Tourism
<![CDATA[ Ash Dykes extreme adventurer, urges UK to scale new heights to defeat killer diseases ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/ash-dykes-extreme-adventurer-urges-uk-to-scale-new-heights-to-defeat-killer-diseases-5e6d37fe907563a6da83e89d5796c837/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/ash-dykes-extreme-adventurer-urges-uk-to-scale-new-heights-to-defeat-killer-diseases-5e6d37fe907563a6da83e89d5796c837/ Wednesday 13 July, 2016

Wales’ extreme adventurer Ash Dykes urges UK to scale new heights to defeat killer diseases

Malaria survivor and British Adventurer Ash Dykes is announced as a Special Ambassador for Malaria No More UK, a charity also supported by David Beckham and Andy Murray.

Yesterday Ash climbed onto the stage with legendary singer Annie Lennox to call for the UK Government to lead the world in the battle against deadly diseases.

Dykes issued a statement in Westminster’s Portcullis House calling on MPs and Department for International Development ministers to replenish the Global Fund which spearheads the world-wide fight against malaria and other fatal infections.

Ash said: “‘I nearly died from malaria earlier this year on my expedition crossing Madagascar. It was a life changer. I also saw how this disease rips communities apart – with the majority of victims being young children. That’s why the Global Fund and UK leadership is so important, and it’s making a real difference - over 550 million mosquito nets have been distributed since 2002. That’s an incredible achievement.”

The Global Fund is an international public-private partnership set up in 2002 to combat the scourge of fatal infections. It mobilises and invests nearly US$4 billion a year providing affordable and effective treatment to TB, AIDs and HIV, and Malaria - supporting prevention health programs run by local experts in countries and communities most in need.

Having saved 17 million lives since its founding in 2002, the UK is being asked to donate £1.2billion to help save a further eight million over the next three years.

Victory Within Reach

Crucially, the Global Fund’s funding of scientific advances means defeating the three main infectious disease killers is within grasp - as long the momentum is not lost.

The Global Fund has set a US$13 billion target ahead of its replenishment meeting in Canada in September to avert hundreds of millions of new infections.

That means donor nations will have to increase their contribution by an average of 20%. Such an increase from the UK Government would alone help save 1.1 million lives.

Canada, the European Union and Japan have already committed to the increase -- but the Global Fund will only reach its target if the UK government makes a 20% in increase in its contribution.

Singer Annie Lennox (pictured) urged the new UK Government to remain a thorn in the side of killer diseases such as AIDS and HIV, Tuberculosis and malaria yesterday.

The former Eurythmics star and vocal AIDS campaigner Annie Lennox echoed Dykes’ call on the UK Government to continue its strong leadership by pledging £1.2 billion to the Global Fund, which has saved 17 million lives over the last 15 years - and aims to save 8 million more by 2020 by tipping the balance against deadly diseases.

Lennox said: “We should be proud of the strong leadership role and dedication to global public health that the UK has shown to date.

“With the upcoming replenishment of the Global Fund, and amid the political uncertainty, now is the time for the UK government to demonstrate that Britain will continue its strong and brave leadership, inspiring other governments with its dedication to saving and improving the quality of life for millions around the world.”

The Scottish star warned failure to donate to the Global Fund pot would see a funding shortfall that would undo the advancement to date and lead to “a genocide, an apocalypse” among the most vulnerable victims of the three diseases ­- teenage girls and women of reproductive age.

Executive Director of the Global Fund, Mark Dybul said: “The UK is world leader in fighting these diseases. Britain set the global standard for others to follow in helping others with its 0.7% commitment of national income to overseas development.

“It is the UK’s strong global leadership that we hope will continue and go on inspiring others as we face an important time in our history fighting these diseases.”

Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at Department for International Development Nick Hurd, agreed that Britain should seek continue its leadership role under new Prime Minister Theresa May.

He thanked Dykes and Lennox and UK charities including ONE, Malaria No More UK, Results, Stop Aids HIV Alliance for “holding our feet to fire” to ensure “this extraordinary partnership to save lives and bear down on these three deadly diseases, continues”.

The All Parliamentary Party Group meeting was co-organised by leading NGOs and charities The ONE Campaign, STOPAIDS UK, International HIV/AIDS Alliance, Malaria No More UK, RESULTS UK and Comic Relief.

END




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http://www.ashdykes.com 13 Jul 2016 10:28:55 GMT Charities & non-profits Education & Human Resources Environment & Nature Government Health Media & Marketing Medical & Pharmaceutical Public Sector & Legal Sport Travel & Tourism
<![CDATA[ ​Adventurer Ash Dykes Completes World First Expedition: Traversing the Length of Madagascar ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/adventurer-ash-dykes-completes-world-first-expedition-traversing-the-length-of-madagascar-96b78f44e809e373f4b69c1d4fd2d6dc/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/adventurer-ash-dykes-completes-world-first-expedition-traversing-the-length-of-madagascar-96b78f44e809e373f4b69c1d4fd2d6dc/ Monday 15 February, 2016

National Adventurer of the Year nominee, Ash Dykes, has become the first person in history to successfully walk the entire length of Madagascar from south to north, summiting its eight highest mountains on his way.

The expedition, which took 155 days to complete, saw Ash walk more that 3.5 million steps to reach Cap d'Ambre – the most northerly point of the island - in the early hours of this morning.

This 1600 mile mission is a journey of raw adventure as authentic and challenging as the landscape, but with that comes the prospect of serious danger. Ash contracted the most deadly strain of Malaria just 12 weeks ago, leaving him with hours to live before he received emergency medical treatment. Determined to bounce back, Ash spent 5 days in recovery before continuing with the expedition. More recently he suffered an adverse reaction to spider bites that caused his arms to blister and has narrowly avoided scorpions, snakes and even poisonous centipedes found in the depths of the forests.

The expedition has taken Ash across some truly unforgiving and dangerous terrain as he's faced sweltering desert and sand dunes in the south before hacking his way through dense jungle and rainforest in the north with temperatures scaling from 0c right up to 45c.

Ash also met local inhabitants face to face during his trek, giving him the chance to understand the Malagasy way and pace of life at eye level. One tribe gifted Ash with a chicken ahead of his journey to summit Maromokotro, the highest mountain on the island, and was told to set it free at the summit in order to destroy bad spirits to allow a safe descent; an order Ash followed with the chicken he affectionately named Gertrude.

When there weren't locals around to invite Ash into their homes, Ash took to living a very primitive way of life. Not only was he relying on natural resources to get him out of situations - he was left stranded at the foot of a mountain following a cyclone and built a raft from wood to float across a flooded river – but also foraging for wild nutrients including mangos, banana, sugar cane and lychee, as well as lesser known raffia fruit and kat leaves.

Ash Dykes commented: "It's been an incredible journey and I feel very privileged to experience the heart of Madagascar. The people are some of the most hospitable I've met and to be welcomed by tribes that, until now, have never even seen a foreigner was very special. Seeing how locals not only survive but thrive in remote and often perilous areas has been eye opening. However nothing could have prepared me for just how mentally and physically tough the journey would be. This is, without a doubt, the hardest and most demanding challenge I've taken on - there were times it nearly broke me so reaching the finish line was quite overwhelming."

The expedition was more than a personal challenge for Ash. He chose Madagascar for its status as one of the world's biodiversity hotspots. Around 75 percent of the species found in Madagascar live nowhere else on the planet, but deforestation is causing habitat and wildlife loss, something Ash wanted to explore and see first hand.

Ash visited several conservationists across the island from the Lemur Conservation Network who protect the island's most famous inhabitants—with over 100 species of lemur who make up the world's most endangered group of mammals. In the south, Ash met with Azafady, a humanitarian and environmental charity that aims to alleviate poverty and conserve unique and biologically rich environments; and in the north, Ash trekked into Montagne des Francais with the Madagascar Biodiversity Partnership to spot one of the 50 remaining Northern Sportive Lemurs.

Throughout the expedition, Ash witnessed both the rampant forest fires destroying the land, and the simultaneous reforestation and habitat protection efforts, revealing the ongoing battle that they face. Ash was lucky enough to see some of the island's rarest species first hand, including the Madagascan Pochard Duck, native to Madagascar with less than 50 left in the world.

Ash Dykes said: “Madagascar is a country of stark contrast with some very real environmental issues and a big part of the expedition was to highlight this. There's a huge threat to a lot of the island's endemic species but so many conservationists are in place to rescue and protect them with very positive achievements. In the past year alone, over 10,000 trees have been planted to reforest and protect the habitat of the Northern Sportive Lemur, so it's great to see projects making a difference.“

Ash has been nominated for this year's National Adventure Awards and selected as an ambassador for the 'Wales Year of Adventure'. In 2014 achieved a world first accolade after walking the entire length of Mongolia including the Gobi desert.




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http://www.ashdykes.com 15 Feb 2016 12:18:26 GMT Charities & non-profits Environment & Nature Farming & Animals Men's Interest Travel & Tourism
<![CDATA[ Adventurer Hits Major Milestone on World First Expedition ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/adventurer-hits-major-milestone-on-world-first-expedition-a74b40b6eba019e977f2c0ebf66479e1/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/adventurer-hits-major-milestone-on-world-first-expedition-a74b40b6eba019e977f2c0ebf66479e1/ Wednesday 25 November, 2015

Adventurer, Ash Dykes, who embarked on an expedition to become the first person in history to traverse the length of Madagascar, summiting its eight highest peaks on the way, has reached the first major milestone on his epic journey – the halfway point.

In the three months since starting his expedition, Ash has trekked almost 800 miles across challenging terrain from barren desert and dense jungle to boggy marshland, battling temperate as high as 45 degrees.

So far Ash has summited five of the eight mountains with a total culminated height bigger than Everest. These include (in order of completion):

Pic Boby - 2658m – 2nd highest in MadagascarIbity - 2240m - 9th highest in MadagascarFamoizankova - 2367m - 7th highest in MadagascarInanobe - 2325m, 6th highest in MadagascarTsiatajavona - 2643m, 3rd highest in Madagascar

And if that's not enough Ash has confronted of a number serious challenges and obstacles on his journey so far. Just three weeks ago he contracted the most deadly strain of Malaria and, hours away from death, was rushed to the nearest city for urgent treatment. Having now made a full recovery Ash was determined to see the expedition through and pushed on with the next leg, which has led him to this landmark point.

Ash Dykes said: “The last three months have been a complete whirlwind – some real highs but some real lows too. It's not only physically tough but also mentally exhausting. No amount of training can prepare you for challenges you face on the ground. Reaching the halfway mark is a very special moment for me – more so since contracting Malaria three weeks ago – and I feel ready to tackle the next 800 miles.”

In the final leg of his expedition Ash will face four more mountains and, as the terrain and landscapes change dramatically towards the north, his daily average will reduce significantly from 30km to around 10km as he hacks his way through dense jungle and forest.

As part of the expedition Ash is supporting Lemur Conservation Network, a charity dedicated to the protection and rescue of lemurs that are critically endangered in Madagascar.

Ash continues: “I've been lucky enough to see six species of lemur whilst I've been in Madagascar, and visit three conservation sites all working hard to protect the species. There's a lot to be done to help raise awareness of not only the plight of the lemur but also other endemic species on the island that are vulnerable. By supporting this cause and sharing all the incredible initiatives in place to secure their future I hope I can make a difference too.”

Ash is expected to complete his world first expedition in February 2016 at which point he will return to the UK.




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http://www.ashdykes.com 25 Nov 2015 09:14:31 GMT Business & Finance Education & Human Resources Environment & Nature Government Health Leisure & Hobbies Media & Marketing Men's Interest Sport Travel & Tourism
<![CDATA[ Adventurer Set to Continue World First Expedition Despite Malaria Setback ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/adventurer-set-to-continue-world-first-expedition-despite-malaria-setback-9f404928474acd9de850eafcc1bffec8/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/adventurer-set-to-continue-world-first-expedition-despite-malaria-setback-9f404928474acd9de850eafcc1bffec8/ Thursday 29 October, 2015

Adventurer, Ash Dykes, who set out to achieve a world first expedition to traverse the length of Madagascar whilst summiting its eight highest peaks has confirmed he will continue with the expedition despite contracting malaria.

Ash left the UK to commence the expedition in September and has been travelling from the southern most tip of the island towards the north since. Local unrest between military and bandits forced Ash to detour into more remote areas and into potential high-risk malaria zones and, just over four weeks into the expedition, it was confirmed that Ash had contracted the disease.

Ash said: “Early signs were very similar to severe heat exhaustion but, within a few days, symptoms worsened and I was suffering with severe sickness and hallucinations. It was at this point I knew something was seriously wrong and decided to travel three hours by car to the nearest city – Fianaratsoa – for urgent medical attention."

After conducting tests it was confirmed that Ash had contracted the most deadly strain of Malaria and he was given a course of tablets to help aid his recovery.

Ash continued: “It's been a tough couple of weeks but I'm recovering well and determined to finish the expedition. I am more focused than ever and know I need to take extra precautions to protect myself in future. Confronting your own mortality like that, reinforces how precious life is and the importance of doing the things you love. This is part of the journey."

Ash is expected to complete his world first expedition in March 2015 at which point he will return to the UK.

ENDS




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http://www.ashdykes.com 29 Oct 2015 09:04:06 GMT Business & Finance Charities & non-profits Children & Teenagers Education & Human Resources Entertainment & Arts Environment & Nature Media & Marketing Men's Interest Transport & Logistics Travel & Tourism
<![CDATA[ Ash Dykes - Traversing Madagascar: A World First ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/ash-dykes-traversing-madagascar-a-world-first-e3aac5f2790bd5b13b0ef5f2ff249e78/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/ash-dykes-traversing-madagascar-a-world-first-e3aac5f2790bd5b13b0ef5f2ff249e78/ Monday 17 August, 2015

ADVENTURER OF THE YEAR ATTEMPTS WORLD RECORD: TO TRAVERSE THE LENGTH OF MADAGASCAR

1 MAN. 5 MONTHS. 8 MOUNTAIN SUMMITS. 1800 MILES.

"A lot of challenges will be thrown at Ash as he undertakes this expedition. It will be a real test of perseverance but I have no doubt he has the grit, determination and stamina to see it through. It will be a remarkable achievement." Sir Ranulph Fiennes

Adventurer of the Year 2015 winner, Ash Dykes, is embarking on the expedition of a lifetime: to become the first person in history to successfully traverse the entire length of Madagascar through its middle, taking on eight major mountain summits on his way.

This September 2015, Ash will take the first step of this incredible journey that will see him tough it out against unpredictable, and sometimes deadly, weather conditions and wildlife. (Watch the pre-expedition video here: https://youtu.be/QLzDLrAYcOE

Commencing from the island's most southern point (Cap Sainte Marie), Ash will trek across the Southern Desert, and hack his way through dense jungle and deciduous forests, as he heads towards the heart of Madagascar and tackles the deep gorges and high cliffs of the Ankarana limestone. The jagged rock is locally known as 'tsingy', meaning 'tip-toe', as it is notoriously difficult to cross by foot.

Ash will spend the remainder of this epic journey, following the spinal mountainous ridge that spreads almost the entire length of Madagascar, taking on eight of the highest mountain summits, including Madagascar's highest mountain - Maromokotro (2,876m). He'll then continue north until he reaches the tip of Cap'D Ambre, the most northern point of the fourth largest island in the world, to complete the expedition.

As well as dangers from harsh terrains and volatile weather conditions, Ash will need to cross crocodile infested rivers and will come face to face with snakes, scorpions and deadly spiders; an altogether different challenge that will mean keeping his wits about him at all times.

Over 90% of Madagascar's fauna and flora exist nowhere else on earth, and much of it is endangered. As Ash traverses Madagascar, he will have the unique opportunity to learn about the beauty, history and bio-diversity of the country.

Ash will learn from conservationists from the Lemur Conservation Network about the extreme challenges they face while working to protect Madagascar's unique lemurs—the world's most endangered group of mammals—from extinction. As part of his mission, Ash will search for one of the world's rarest primates—the northern sportive lemur—whose entire population is estimated at only 50 to highlight an issue that, so far, has received very little attention.

What's more, Ash will spend time with indigenous tribes that, due to their remote location, some will not have seen a foreigner for more than 60 years. This close up and personal view will allow Ash to immerse himself in their way and pace of life, providing a deeper understanding of how these communities survive and thrive on the island.

Ash Dykes, said: "Madagascar is a magical and largely unexplored island. This expedition is an opportunity to showcase its outstanding natural beauty whilst challenging and pushing myself to the limits in every way. Its terrain is unforgiving and conditions unpredictable, making it a tough challenge, but I'm determined to see it through. It's an opportunity to unlock Madagascar's mystery and share stories of its people and wildlife that would otherwise never be known."

ENDS




Distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/ ]]>
https://twitter.com/@AshDykes Pressat phildykes@outlook.com
http://www.ashdykes.com

Additional Contact(s):
Phil Dykes, phildykes@outlook.com Mobile number 0044 7516790587

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http://www.ashdykes.com 17 Aug 2015 08:48:35 GMT Business & Finance Charities & non-profits Children & Teenagers Computing & Telecoms Construction & Property Consumer Technology Education & Human Resources Entertainment & Arts Environment & Nature Government
<![CDATA[ New World Record-Walking Mongolia ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/new-world-record-walking-mongolia-52911ecb6a96898cc1c57b8a1916590b/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/new-world-record-walking-mongolia-52911ecb6a96898cc1c57b8a1916590b/ Monday 21 July, 2014

A new world record Walking Mongolia solo and unsupported, has been set by young explorer Ash Dykes, a 23 year from North Wales.

Ash commenced his Journey towards the end of May this year from Olgiy, a settlement to the West of Mongolia. He has exceeded the current record and is continuing his journey in an attempt to walk the length of Mongolia and achieve a World First.

The trek has taken him through the Alti mountains, Gobi desert & the Mongolian Steppe. Ash is pulling a cart with his provisions & weighs around 150kg across the brutal & unforgiving terrain & climate. During his trek Ash has walked a staggering 1,100 miles as he makes his way to Choybalan in the East, to complete his journey.

During his expedition, Ash has experienced many mental and physical challenges from snow blizzards, sand storms and relentless heat. At one point Ash had to rest a few days in a small settlement to regain his strength in order to pursue his goal. Undeterred and feeling ready to continue, he made his way in the blistering heat and difficult terrain in pursuit of achieving his goal.

Until recently Ash was working in Thailand as a Scuba Dive master instructor and is no stranger to adventure. He has already racked up many adventures since the age of 19 when he first set off on a round the world trip. He has cycled across Cambodia to North Vietnam covering some 1,130 miles taking just 13 days over mountains on a bike with no gears. He also had a similar expedition in Australia and while in India he took the opportunity to experience the Himalayas to name a few.

On breaking the world record Ash arrived at Govi-Utgaal in Dundgovi, Central Mongolia and had originally planned to set off the next day. He then discovered the following day was the local Nadaam celebrations, and couldn't resist taking the opportunity to absorb the local culture during their festive spirit and felt privileged to be apart of their day.   

Ash is on track to arrive at Choybalsan around the middle of August when he would have successfully achieved a world first.

Ash's route and current position can be found at www.ashdykes.com




Distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/ ]]>
https://twitter.com/@AshDykes Pressat phildykes@outlook.com
http://www.ashdykes.com

Additional Contact(s):
Phil Dykes, phildykes@outlook.com Mobile number 0044 7516790587

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http://www.ashdykes.com 21 Jul 2014 09:19:33 GMT Environment & Nature Travel & Tourism
<![CDATA[ Young Adventurer days away from setting a new world record ]]> https://pressat.co.uk/releases/young-adventurer-days-away-from-setting-a-new-world-record-307a73d08ae969467964e8dd22f48987/ https://pressat.co.uk/releases/young-adventurer-days-away-from-setting-a-new-world-record-307a73d08ae969467964e8dd22f48987/ Tuesday 15 July, 2014

Ash Dykes a 23 year old from North Wales is only days away from achieving a new world record, Walking Mongolia solo & unsupported, in an attempt to exceed the current 1,012 mile record.  His Journey commenced towards the end of May this year from Olgiy a settlement which lay to the West of Mongolia. 

The trek has taken him through the Altai mountains, Gobi desert & the Mongolian Steppe.  Ash is pulling a cart with his provisions & weighs around 150kg across the brutal & unforgiving terrain & climate. During his trek he has currently covered around 950 miles facing snow blizzards, sand storms & relentless heat, resulting in heat exhaustion and having to rest a few days in a small settlement to regain his strength in order to pursue his goal. 

Until recently Ash was working in Thailand as a Scuba Dive master instructor and is no stranger to adventure. He has already racked up many adventures since the age of 19, when he first set off on a round the world trip.  He has cycled across Cambodia to north Vietnam  covering some 1,130 miles taking just 13 days over mountains on a bike with no gears. He also had a similar expedition in Australia and while in India he took the opportunity to experience the Himalayas to name a few.  

Ash was contactable just recently whilst he was recovering from heat exhaustion, he still maintained his philosophy  “What counts is developing a cheerfulness and quiet determination to keep going and never give up”.  True to his belief a few days later he was back on track making great progress on his current expedition.  

Ash is due to achieve the new world record in a matter of days,  he will then continue the expedition in an attempt to achieve a WORLDS FIRST Walking the length of Mongolia and is expected to arrive at Choybalsan to the East of Mongolia by mid August.  

Ash's route and current position can be found at www.ashdykes.com  




Distributed by https://pressat.co.uk/ ]]>
https://twitter.com/@AshDykes Pressat phildykes@outlook.com
http://www.ashdykes.com

Additional Contact(s):
Phil Dykes, phildykes@outlook.com Mobile number 0044 7516790587

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http://www.ashdykes.com 15 Jul 2014 07:52:06 GMT Environment & Nature Leisure & Hobbies