James Ketchell, a world traveler, encourages young people to venture out into the world and embrace new experiences. During his global circumnavigation by land, sea, and air, Ketchell aims to inspire youth to disconnect from screens, develop self-confidence, and learn from the challenges of life.
Meanwhile, British Army veteran Karl Bushby, after a 28-year journey across four continents, has returned to England. Bushby, a 57-year-old former paratrooper, added to his adventures by swimming across the English Channel, marking a significant milestone in his around-the-world expedition. He began this journey in 1998, and now has about 250 miles left to walk until he reunites with his mother, whom he last saw 11 years ago.
Bushby’s Commitment to His Mission
Bushby spent around 20 hours swimming the English Channel over three days, reaching Shakespeare Beach near Dover on October 5. He shared with the BBC his initial doubts upon entering the water, but his determination kept him moving. Despite facing cramps and uncertainty within the first hour, Bushby persevered.
Bushby’s journey totals more than 30,000 miles and spans 29 countries. He began in Chile on November 1, 1998, committing to not using transportation like planes, trains, and automobiles and avoiding returning home until completing his expedition. His travels included the length of South America, North America, and a daring crossing of the Bering Strait.
Bushby also trekked the arduous Darién Gap between Panama and Colombia. In 2006, alongside French-American adventurer Dimitri Kieffer, he crossed the frozen Bering Strait on foot. More recently, he swam 184 miles across the Caspian Sea, continuing onwards toward Europe.
Bushby’s journey faced numerous challenges. Visa issues, loss of sponsors during the 2008 financial crisis, COVID-19 lockdowns, and geopolitical issues delayed him.
He began his expedition with only $500 and no sponsors, relying on book sales, speaking events, donations, and sponsorships. A documentary company supported him for 16 years. Despite planning to walk through the Channel Tunnel to England, safety concerns led to the decision to swim instead.
Final Steps Toward Home
While swimming, Bushby found solace in the night sky, helping distract from the pain. Currently, he begins the final 250-mile journey to Hull, where he aims to conclude his expedition. After leaving the port city 28 years ago, he looks forward to reuniting with his mother.