AFF 2015 Magazine

ADVENTUROUS THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE

ADVENTURE FILM FESTIVAL 2015

THE FIRST DECADE

1

2006 - 2015

4

THESE ARE THE PEOPLE THAT MAKE FOR

ADVENTUROUS TEAMWORK Adventure Film Festival adventurefest.co.uk Festival Director Jim Odoire jim@blackdiamond.co.uk Programme Editor Charmaine Niewerth charmaine@blackdiamond.co.uk Designer Craig Johnson craig@blackdiamond.co.uk Website Anton Morrison & Alex Kempton Printer Four Corners Print Printed on Carbon Captured paper

Contributing photographers Tero Repo (Mission Antarctica) Chris Burkard (CRADLE OF STORMS) Samuel Crossley (SUFFERFEST) Tom Allen & Leon McCarron (KARUN) Dan Milner (FORGOTTEN DIRT) Sam Hardy (UNDO EUROPE) Claudia Ziegler (CONTINUE) Andrew Miller & Jeff Curley (HIGHER) Brett Lowell, Glen Denny, Charlie Row & Lincoln Else (VALLEY UPRISING) Special thanks to Nissan The Telegraph Yosemite Mariposa County Salomon Mammoth Lakes, California Bon Voyage

ADVENTUROUS THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE

ADVENTURE FILM FESTIVAL 2015

THE FIRST DECADE

1

2006 - 2015

Published by Black Diamond 15 Bedford Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 9HE. Telephone: 020 7240 4071 www.blackdiamond.co.uk Š2015 Black Diamond.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be used, reproduced, stored in an information retrieval system or transmitted in any manner whatsoever without the express permission of the publishers. This Publication has been produced wholly upon information received from contributors and while the publishers trust their content will be of interest to readers, the accuracy cannot be guaranteed.

The publisher cannot accept, and hereby disclaims, any liability for the consequences of inaccuracies, errors, omissions or opinions in such information for publication or otherwise. No representations, whether within the meaning of the Misrepresentation Act 1967 or otherwise, warranties or endorsements of information contained herein are given or intended and full verification of all information must be sought from the respective contributors. The publication of the articles herein does not necessarily imply that the opinions are those of the publishers.

6

THESE ARE THE FILMS THAT MAKE FOR

ADVENTUROUS CONTENT 6 THEMED ZONES OVER 300 EXHIBITORS 50+ INSPIRING SPEAKERS INDOOR OBSTACLE COURSE SUPERBLOC CLIMBING COMPETITION LOTS TO SEE AND DO FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

10

THESE ARE THE MEMORIES THAT MAKE FOR AN

ADVENTUROUS DECADE 1 In 2006 the UK Film Council started its £11.7 million pound installation of a digital screen network in over 300 cinemas nationwide. This new digital projection would allow smaller, independent film makers the opportunity to distribute their content theatrically whilst avoiding the prohibitive costs associated with the production of 35mm film prints.

Digital screen network cinemas were also encouraged to screen a greater variety of non-traditional films, so started to look for compelling niche film content to fill these screens. Black Diamond, long-

First to sign up to the AFF 2006 were Ewan Macgregor and Charley Boorman (PIC:1) who had produced a director’s cut of their

5

ANTHILL FILMS PRESENTS

PRODUCED BY BRYCE LOWE-WHITE DIRECTED BY BRYCE LOWE-WHITE & BEN WEILAND

his expedition to the unexplored centre of Papua New Guinea and Beserk, the story of

DRIVEN BY

19 year old Norwegian Jarle Andehoy who sells all his worldly possessions to buy and

1 Ticket, 4 Shows!

sail a 19ft yacht from Norway to Antarctica.

The festival kicked off with a red-carpet premiere at the Vue West End in Leicester Square which featured a special cut of Long Way Round followed by a Q+A and UNICEF

Geographical, Active). The films themselves went from strength to strength with submissions from Dame Ellen Macarthur

As Hunter says: “This sucks.” However, the storm passes and the team make it into Big Pamir, with days of downhill riding to follow.

Forgotten Dirt not only shares Hunter’s

in freezing waters, we also share their fresh perspective for Mother Nature in all her

Canada through Turkey and Tajikistan. Once there, Hunter and his small team spend five

rugged, brutal splendour.

days crossing mountainous, river-punctured terrain in 4x4s to reach the start of their 12day bike trail. The team’s exhilaration on

in search of good breaks, the trio discover perfect barrelling waves and dream slabs, which they share with each other, some reindeer and the occasional Arctic fox or eagle.

FOLLOW US ONLINE!

SOME OF THE MOST VOLATILE WATERS IN THE NORTH PACIFIC

NORTH OF THE SUN [NORWAY]

HIGHER [SWITZERLAND]

CRADLE OF STORMS [ALASKA]

ADVENTUROUS LOCATIONS

[SWITZERLAND] [ITALY]

FORGOTTEN DIRT

[COLORADO]

[AFGHANISTAN]

As the first people to attempt this trail by bike, the journey was never going to be easy.

Helmet-cam footage of Hunter hurtling along dramatic trails is accompanied by scenes of the team labouring up steep mountains

17

26

SUFFERFEST

This stylish film features climbers Cedar

KARUN [IRAN]

HIGHER [WYOMING] [NEPAL]

The Thrillseekers Adventure Film Festival

line-up yet. Featuring three world premieres

UNDO EUROPE

PRODUCED & DIRECTED BY JAY EISENBERG

climb /bike

SEVENTEEN MINUTES

BEAUTY OF THE IRRATIONAL [SOUTH AFRICA]

including interviews with this year’s AFF stars

of skilled athletes and artists setting out to make this type of film. From the white water of New Zealand to the peaks of Pakistan, the

and special offers.

Jim Odoire, Festival Director

panel has selected 15 films to inspire, excite

AFF encourages audiences to explore and enjoy the world through adventure film.

Full film listings, venue details and

and entertain, and create the festival’s best

tickets are available at adventurefest.co.uk

twitter.com/AdventureFF

UK audience with screenings at more than 30 cinemas across the nation from Exeter to Inverness.

From hundreds of submissions, the AFF

Wright and Alex Honnold on an epic three-

experiences of my life.”

Despite the pain, danger and exhaustion the pair endure as they bike over 750 miles, hike over 100 miles and climb over 100,000

to the very limits of endurance. Add a dash

the competition to be in with a chance of winning a brand new Nissan Juke Nismo.

You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter for a range of exclusive content,

its accessibility) and the growing number

From 14th October, our three film programmes will bring the widest variety of adventure film content to the widest possible

of life & death thrill to the challenge, they also make technical free soloing ascents of the peaks (climbing without ropes).

As with every mammoth adventure, there are highs and lows: summiting five peaks in one day in the Palisades has Wright and Honnold whooping with joy. Misjudging

MISSION ANTARCTICA [ANTARCTICA]

the route up Middle Palisade a few days later, summiting the wrong peak and then having to negotiate a loose, exposed knife-

We look forward to seeing you at the show.

edge ridge traverse to summit the correct

facebook.com/AdventureFilmFestUK

16:17

one, is less fun. A gruelling, unexpectedly long 14-hour bike ride up White Mountain

feet, they remain witty and upbeat, confident they’ll look upon the journey as a highlight of their lives - once the pain has gone.

When Xavier de le Rue, arguably the world’s

The Captain, what de le Rue describes as “the steepest thing I’ve ever seen”: this is where snowboarding crosses over into mountaineering and exploration. With

Lucas Debari to join him, director Guido Perrini and a select film crew to journey to Antarctica with him on what proves to be the

Perrini’s stunning footage complementing toe-curlingly gnarly descents, this film is as much about the pristine beauty, rich wildlife

adventure of a lifetime.

its majesty captured in immaculate detail by Perrini’s superb cinematography. Despite the beauty of the surroundings, however, snowboarding conditions are far from perfect and the mood hits rock bottom.

After 13 days, however, the weather clears, conditions improve and de le Rue and Debari’s long uphill climbs are rewarded with countless first descents. Touring past penguins on the ice cap, riding down

KARUN

virgin slopes to the ocean and tackling

best freeride snowboarder says: “It’s getting really serious now”, you know you’re in for something special. Thirsting for adventure, de le Rue invites fellow freestyle snowboarder

A stormy five-day crossing of the infamously treacherous Drake Passage brings the crew to the Antarctic Peninsula,

18:19:20:21

snow board

PRODUCED BY BLACK DIAMOND DIRECTED BY TOM ALLEN & LEON MCCARRON

journey

A down-to-earth British film, Karun follows seasoned traveller Tom Allen and his friend

paddle or a bicycle to borrow, the locals are unfailingly eager to help, showing that the ancient Persian practice of helping strangers is still very much alive.

inflatable kayaks and on bicycles to complete their mission within the one-month timeframe

and sheer scale of Antarctica as it is about

imposed by their tourist visas.

Having prepared for the trip by learning

snowboarding.

FIFTEEN MINUTES AND NINETEEN SECONDS

Leon McCarron on a fascinating journey from the source of Iran’s 450-mile long Karun river to its mouth at the Persian Gulf. Starting in a snow blizzard in the Zard Kuh mountains, the intrepid adventurers travel on foot, in

THE STEEPEST THING I’VE EVER SEEN

a bank of cloud, at others we fly directly behind (or is it in front of?) a fellow BASE jumper back onto the platform, and at others again we jump and fly in groups of seven.

The unadulterated joy and enthusiasm of the jumpers pervades the film, leaving you with a sense of having lived life with them for a few brief moments.

NORTH OF THE SUN

PRODUCED BY ANNE BERGSENG DIRECTED BY INGE WEGGE AND JØRN RANUM

BLACK DIAMOND PRESENTS

THIRTY EIGHT MINUTES

and action-packed, with mostly point of view segments giving a real sense of the sensation and speed of flying, albeit in reverse.

At one point we fly upwards through

Farsi, Iran’s primary language, Allen explains that travelling along the river is essentially an “excuse” to discover the local culture and meet its people. And, as the pair navigate through snow-clad mountains, along turbulent rapids in deep gorges and on treacherous roads winding high above

This inspirational film follows two friends,

HAVING PREPARED FOR THE TRIP LEARNING IRAN’S PRIMARY LANGUAGE

Shot and edited with skill, artistry and wit

by Wegge and Ranum, this account of their extraordinary undertaking showcases their

Wegge and Ranum are drawn to the bay for its surf. Arriving in autumn, the break basks in sunshine until winter sets in: it’s north of the Arctic Circle and soon the boys are surfing in sub-zero temperatures in semidarkness, lit only by the Northern Lights.

Melting snow dripping through the roof into their cabin heralds the arrival of spring and jubilation as the sun returns to the bay for the first time in months. Throughout their

42:43:44:45

surf

from the beach, amassing 3 tonnes, which is collected by helicopter to be destroyed, ensuring their tenure not only enriches them but helps preserve their “paradise.”

oven, from debris found on the beach and restrict themselves to buying food from the “local” shop (several hours’ hike away) that’s beyond its sell-by-date and would otherwise

to sleep at night, a replacement kayaking

FORTY SIX MINUTES

stay, Wegge and Ranum collect rubbish

Inge Wegge (25) and Jorn Ranum (22), as they live for nine months on an uninhabited bay on Norway’s remote north coast. The enterprising duo build a cabin, complete with

be discarded.

Beyond the challenge of leading a selfsufficient existence in this barren spot,

the Karun, they’re welcomed by those locals with remarkable warmth and generous hospitality. Whether looking for a safe place

30:31:32:33

base jump -ing

42

TIMELINE MISSIONS PRESENTS

MISSION ANTARCTICA

to take stand on the rocky outcrops and landing platforms from which they originally launched themselves. The footage is gritty

THREE MINUTES AND FIFTY FIVE SECONDS

JOY AND ENTHUSIASM PERVADES THE FILM

38:39:40:41

30

PRODUCED BY MATTHIEU GIRAUD AND XAVIER DE LE RUE DIRECTED BY GUIDO PERRINI

method of depicting jumps in reverse. With the lush valleys and sheer granite rock faces of Switzerland spread out below us, we watch as wing-suited athletes fly backwards

BIKE AND CLIMB ALL FIFTEEN OF CALIFORNIA’S 14ERS

26:27:28:29

18

Short and sweet, this film from veteran BASE jumper Jay Eisenberg adopts the unusual

delivers what Honold calls “among the worst

week mission to bike and climb all fifteen of California’s 14ers (peaks of 14,00ft and over).

No strangers to physical pain, the duo make self-deprecating jokes about their everyday struggles (sun burned thighs and saddle soreness) while actually pushing themselves

and whilst you’re there, don’t forget to enter

and four UK premieres, the quality of the content at this year’s event is a testament to the increasing skill of adventure filmmakers, the ever-improving technical equipment (and

powered by Nismo returns for an 8th year in 2013, showcasing the finest adventure films from across the globe.

warmth of its people.

38

CEDAR WRIGHT MEDIA PRESENTS

VALLEY UPRISING [CALIFORNIA]

ambitious journey but communicates the rarely-seen beauty of Afghanistan and

GLACIAL RIVERS AND YAK HERDERS PROVIDE THE BACKDROP

34:35:36:37

PRODUCED & DIRECTED BY CEDAR WRIGHT

UNDO EUROPE SUFFERFEST

rivers and yak herders provide the backdrop to the single trails they speed along.

under their bikes, pushing them through snowstorms and being forced to retreat

22:23:24:25

16

mounting up their bikes after the epic journey is tangible: blue skies, snowy peaks, glacial

After three unusually balmy days, a storm hits, suspending surfing adventures and

10:12:13:14

mount -ain bike

from the 16,416ft Karabel Pass when the porters’ mules grind to a halt in deep snow.

legendary mountain biker and filmmaker Matt Hunter as our guide. We cross real and intangible borders with Hunter, taking three days to reach Afghanistan, travelling from

snow-clad Alaskan volcanoes. Spending up to five hours a day riding ATVs through mud

*OFFER APPLIES TO ADVANCE ADULT TICKETS ONLY. BOOKING FEE APPLIES. † THE 1 TICKET 4 SHOWS OFFER INCLUDES THE LONDON INTERNATIONAL DIVE SHOW, WHICH IS ONLY OPEN FROM SAT 14 TO SUN 15 FEBRUARY 2015.

DURATION : 14,256 FRAMES @ 24FPS

to hit the icy waters again, catching barrel after barrel in a bay near their hut. Sharing their unadulterated joy in discovering these waves, riding for some five hours at a time

accustomed to cold water surfing in Scotland or Scandinavia than at the feet of

WWW.TELEGRAPHOUTDOORSHOW.CO.UK

AFF magazine was picked up by renowned publisher - Circle Publishing (Dive, National

This film takes us on a journey to Afghanistan’s remote Wakhan Corridor with

Wieland, this film travels far from the exotic climes that provide the usual “Endless

Alaska towards Russia in some of the most volatile waters in the North Pacific.

It’s a pioneering quest: we’re more

BOOK IN ADVANCE AND SAVE

2007

exposing the true nature of the Aluetians.

However, a break enables the intrepid surfers

Summer” backdrop for surf flicks, deep into Alaska. We follow pro surfers Alex Gray, Josh Mulcoy and Peter Devries on a journey deep into the Aleutian Islands, which arch from

INCLUDING THE LONDON BIKE SHOW, THE TRIATHLON SHOW: LONDON AND THE LONDON INTERNATIONAL DIVE SHOW†

1

charity auction hosted by Ewan and Charley.

FORGOTTEN DIRT PRODUCED & DIRECTED ANTHILL FILMS

surf

TWENTY SIX MINUTES AND THIRTY SIX SECONDS

Brought to us by Surfer magazine, under the direction of Bryce Lowe-White and Ben

In 2007, momentum started to build. The

2006

31/01/201

34

SURFER MAGAZINE FILMS PRESENTS

CRADLE OF STORMS

hugely successful Long Way Round.

Also featured were Crampons & Cannibals starring Bruce Parry, in a documentary about

time distributor of action sports films, were approached by Vue Cinemas and the Adventure Film Festival was born.

22

BOO ADVANCK IN SAVE* E &

ADULT TICKET

Thurs / Fri S £13 Sat / Sun £15 Quote AFF01

Offer expires

passion for surfing and the outdoors as well as their enterprising self-sufficiency.

NINE MONTHS ON AN UNINHABITED BAY

DESIGNED FOR FREEDOM

COPYRIGHT© SALOMON SAS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. PHOTOGRAPHER: SCOTT MARKEWITZ. LOCATION: VALLÉE DE LA CLARÉE, FRANCE. SKIER: MARK ABMA.

Air, powder or big turns down mountains. Salomon’s Rocker2 collection allows you to move intuitively to express your own version of freedom from gravity.

8

THESE ARE THE REST OF THE FILMS THAT MAKE FOR

ADVENTUROUS CONTENT CONTINUED

46

58

SENDER FILMS PRESENTS

DEAP PRESENTS

CONTINUE

VALLEY UPRISING

DIRECTED BY GREG LAUT

PRODUCED BY DEAP DIRECTED BY WARREN VERBOOM

canyon -ing

DURATION : 24,244 FRAMES @ 24FPS

What this film of extreme canyoning might lack in cinematography, it more than

ONE HUNDRED MINUTES

This award-winning, feature-length movie about the turbulent history and enduring love

reveals just how close to the rocks these daredevils land and, when head-cams sink

climb

Harding were drawn to Yosemite by the words of Jack Kerouac and John Muir,

makes up for in relentless, adrenalinepumping action. ‘Continue’ is the second

you down into the water with them, it’s hard to stop yourself holding your breath until they

affair with rock climbing in Yosemite is also an exploration of America’s counterculture

seeking to live life pushing the limits of their own capabilities, and authority. The 1970s

film put together by the Swiss-based Deap Canyoning crew, following ‘The Beginning’,

come up for air.

through the past 60 years. The constantly evolving “outlaw activity” of rock climbing in

brought the next phase of the “revolution”: the Stonemasters, who evolved rock

California’s legendary valley emerges as the ideal reflection of the issues generations of

climbing to new levels of athleticism, daring and celebrity. By the late 1990s, the Stone

which garnered success at several outdoor film festivals.

Warren Verboom, the leader of Deap Canyoning, features in, films and directs this on-the-edge-of-your-chair account of his team’s exploits in the Swiss Alps. With their death-defying leaps, eye-popping back flips and graceful dives, the Swiss/Brazilian gang redefine canyoning, displaying unparalleled athleticism and acrobatics.

Different segments of the film focus on the skills of

RELENTLESS, ADRENALINEPUMPING ACTION

Americans have experienced with authority, asserting personal freedom and pushing boundaries. That’s not to say Sender Films takes itself too seriously: by tweaking 1960s silver gelatin prints with Wes Andersonstyle artistry and wit, using death-defying freeclimbing and BASE jumping footage, and bringing Yosemite’s climbing legends alive through interviews and personal accounts - all set to a great soundtrack - the film remains entertaining throughout.

The film starts in the 1950s during the

various members of the team - Verboom, Lars Nobs, Laso Schaller and Börni Marsden among them - as they roll, slide, run, abseil

Beatnik era: penniless bums such as the pioneering Royal Robbins and Warren

and hurl themselves down sheer rock faces into pristine glacial pools. The gin-clear water

46:47:48:49

Monkeys had taken over, with climbers such as Dean Potter and Alex Honnold continuing to drive climbing forward with dizzying free climbs, speed climbing and BASE jumping.

PERSONAL FREEDOM AND PUSHING BOUNDARIES

58:59:60:61

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62

63

OPEN WATER

TETON GRAVITY RESEARCH PRESENTS

HIGHER

SO WHAT DO YOU DO, WHEN TEDDINGTON, WIMBLEDON OR WHEREVER YOUR LOCAL BATHS ARE, SIMPLY DON’T EXCITE YOU ANY MORE? YOU MAY HAVE FELT THE EXHILARATION OF SURFING, KITESURFING AND WINDSURFING, BUT WHERE DO YOU GO NOW AS FAR AS YOUR SWIMMING GOES?

PRODUCED BY TODD & STEVE JONES AND JEFF HARASIMOWICZ DIRECTED BY TODD JONES & STEVE JONES

There has been a surge of interest in open

snow board

DURATION : 73,871 FRAMES @ 24FPS

This slick film featuring Jeremy Jones and

water swimming through both the growth

sees Jones fall thousands of feet in a sluff,

Luca Pandolfi comes from the masters of

highlighting the danger of this challenge. On

adventure movies, Teton Gravity Research (TGR). It’s part biography of Jones (younger brother of TGR founders Todd and Steve

day 32, Jones and Pandolfi shelter by the summit for over 3 hours waiting for clouds to clear from the face. Out of luck, they’re

Jones) and part account of his audacious bid to climb and snowboard Shangri La, a 21,400-ft peak in the Himalayas. Using

faced with a perilous hike down. Undeterred, Jones returns alone to summit Shangri La once more and is rewarded with success,

old family photos, film and interviews with Jones’ family, his deep-rooted passion for snowboarding is laid bare. From backyard riding aged nine, Jones went on to dedicate his life first to competitive riding and then to pioneering professional big mountain riding.

Inspired by an old photograph of the towering spines of Shangri La sent to him by a friend, Jones determines to travel to Nepal, climb the peak and ride down it. It’s no mean feat: it takes Jones, Pandolfi and the film crew 3 weeks just to reach base camp and acclimatise. An early foray onto Shangri La, some 60 degrees pitch in places,

albeit in the form of some 22,000 feet of icy, hard-packed, no-fall zone riding. Just be warned: Jones’ helmet cam footage will induce vertigo.

INSPIRED BY THE TOWERING SPINES OF SHANGRI LA

of the “Wild Swimming” phenomenon and popularity of triathlons.

Cutting through the crystal clear waters of the med along the Riviera, swimming in the sea around Burgh Island or another iconic UK landmark, or slicing through the calm waters of a beautiful lake such as Shepperton Lake, can take you into another world.

Not since Lord Byron’s swim in the footsteps of Greek Legend with his swim from Europe to Asia across the Hellespont, has there been so much interest in the sport.

Open Water Swimming is the ultimate adventure sport. There is something for all ages and abilities that can take you safely in stages out of your comfort zone. From making that first small swim in a lake, to swimming the Dart 10k, or even making an epic and iconic crossing such swimming from Alcatraz to the mainland.

So why is Open Water Swimming good for you?

1. Its cheap and easy to get into.

2. It is perfect for all ages and levels.

3. Exercises all the muscle groups in a low

50:51:52:53

62:63

54

THE AFRICAN ATTACHMENT PRESENTS

THE BEAUTY OF THE IRRATIONAL PRODUCED BY GREG FELL DIRECTED BY DEAN LESLIE

DURATION : 8,905 FRAMES @ 24FPS

One of South Africa’s leading adventure

Sandes’

canyon -ing

remarkable

feat,

The

Beauty of the Irrational strives for even greater perspective, extending his battle to overcome adversity in Fish Canyon to relate more generally to life’s struggles. “Which set

and beauty. The film encapsulates the grandeur of Fish River Canyon, the world’s second largest canyon, through Leslie’s

of footprints do you take?” Sandes asks as the camera pans out from him running along a dry riverbed to take in the vast canyon. “Or

distinctive

do you make your own path…”

cinematography:

sweeping

landscape shots and time lapse sequences set the scene, and scale, of Sandes’ mission.

Sandes talks candidly about his failed attempts to break the 10hr 54mins record for running the 85-km trail (completed in five days by hikers). His meticulous planning and respect for the canyon are apparent, yet his exuberance as he runs down Hiker’s Descent and up knife-edge ridges is infectious and inspirational. When he completes the course in just 6hr 57mins, his celebration is understated yet heartfelt.

54:55:56:57

Despite

filmmakers, Dean Leslie imbues this account of the battle of his compatriot and friend, ultrarunner Ryan Sandes, against Namibia’s infamous Fish River Canyon Trail with passion

WHICH SET OF FOOTPRINTS DO YOU TAKE?

impact way.

4. By being conducted outdoors, you have a bonus endorphin rush.

prolonging your life! Not bad for a not so new sport?

It does help to sort that stroke out. With

5. It is good for mind, spirit and body.

6. It can save your life

Winter upon us, now is the time to sort out an efficient and beautiful front crawl, so you can hit the ground/water, swimming next

There is no substitute for mastering the art of

season!

cruising in the great outdoors. Once you’ve done it a few times, swimming in a pool will be like running on a treadmill. In many ways

Swim Lab organise a Winter Swim clinic every Sunday (^30-730pm) at the gorgeous,

it can be easier too. Swimming in salt water and or with a wetsuit gives you increased buoyancy, and many (especially men) find

‘heated’ open air Hampton Pool It is aimed at those wanting to improve that stroke, or simply get fit for that first Tri.

they unlock their super-swimmer persona

There are also intense weekend Swim

once in open water.

Then of course there is the sheer romance swimming. Lord Byron was onto something,

Clinics at the epic Watergate Bay Hotel in Cornwall, and of course coaching from intro to Ironman at the secluded Shepperton Lake

and was at pains to point out that he wanted to be recognised as Britain’s greatest swimmer rather than poet. Swimming albeit

from May 2015.

Durdle Door, or around Burgh Island, or the

or call 07966 161 295

bays around Portofino and the Cinque Terre, add a completely new dimension to a sport, that can sometime hardly feel like one you’re

www.swimlab.org.uk

having so much fun.

Throw in epic local cuisine and culture and your open water hobby can will be rattling off those items on your bucket list ticking, whilst enhancing and probably

Contact: salim@swimlab.org.uk

The ultimate Winter playground

Spring heightens all the senses

Summer’s perfect for scaling new heights

Autumnal magic at its glorious best

I T ’ S

M O R E

T H A N

Y O U

I M A G I N E

w w w.y o s e m i t e e x p e r i e n c e . c o m

10

THESE ARE THE MEMORIES THAT MAKE FOR AN

ADVENTUROUS DECADE 1 In 2006 the UK Film Council started its ÂŁ11.7 million pound installation of a digital screen network in over 300 cinemas nationwide. This new digital projection would allow smaller, independent film makers the opportunity to distribute their content theatrically whilst avoiding the prohibitive costs associated with the production of 35mm film prints.

Digital screen network cinemas were also encouraged to screen a greater variety of non-traditional films, so started to look for compelling niche film content to fill these screens. Black Diamond, longtime distributor of action sports films, were approached by Vue Cinemas and the Adventure Film Festival was born.

2006 First to sign up to the AFF 2006 were Ewan Macgregor and Charley Boorman (PIC:1) who had produced a director’s cut of their

hugely successful Long Way Round.

Also featured were Crampons & Cannibals starring Bruce Parry, in a documentary about his expedition to the unexplored centre of Papua New Guinea and Beserk, the story of 19 year old Norwegian Jarle Andehoy who sells all his worldly possessions to buy and sail a 19ft yacht from Norway to Antarctica.

The festival kicked off with a red-carpet premiere at the Vue West End in Leicester Square which featured a special cut of Long Way Round followed by a Q+A and UNICEF charity auction hosted by Ewan and Charley.

2007 In 2007, momentum started to build. The AFF magazine was picked up by renowned publisher - Circle Publishing (Dive, National Geographical, Active). The films themselves went from strength to strength with submissions from Dame Ellen Macarthur

1

6 THEMED ZONES OVER 300 EXHIBITORS 50+ INSPIRING SPEAKERS INDOOR OBSTACLE COURSE SUPERBLOC CLIMBING COMPETITION LOTS TO SEE AND DO FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

BOO ADVANK IN C SAVE* E &

ADULT TIC

Thurs / Fr KETS Sat / Sun £i £13 15 Quo Offer expite AFF01 res 31 /01/2015

DRIVEN BY

1 Ticket, 4 Shows!

INCLUDING THE LONDON BIKE SHOW, THE TRIATHLON SHOW: LONDON

AND THE LONDON INTERNATIONAL DIVE SHOW†

BOOK IN ADVANCE AND SAVE

WWW.TELEGRAPHOUTDOORSHOW.CO.UK FOLLOW US ONLINE! *OFFER APPLIES TO ADVANCE ADULT TICKETS ONLY. BOOKING FEE APPLIES. † THE 1 TICKET 4 SHOWS OFFER INCLUDES THE LONDON INTERNATIONAL DIVE SHOW, WHICH IS ONLY OPEN FROM SAT 14 TO SUN 15 FEBRUARY 2015.

12

ADVENTUROUS DECADE CONTINUED

2

3

and the UK premieres of BBC Monty Halls’ brand new underwater film Swimming with Giants and Ocean Rescue the incredible story of Mike Golding’s dramatic southern ocean rescue of Alex Thomson in the Velux 5 Oceans race. The Gala premiere proved to be the biggest advance for the AFF brand.

During the evening an invited audience of over 500 people were treated to shortened versions of four AFF films followed by Q+As with stars from each film. These included the multi award-winning Alain Robert (PIC:2), the French Spiderman whose urban climbing exploits have landed him in jail over 20 times in over 15 countries and Red Bull basejumper Karina Hollekim (PIC:2) speaking of the life changing injuries she sustained in the practice of the sport she described as her ‘great escape’.

2008 In a departure from the norm, the Gala in 2008 contained only one film - the AFF was privileged to host the UK premiere of Stranded the feature-length documentary of the harrowing tale of the 1972 Andean plane crash in which the survivors were forced to eat their dead colleagues in order to survive the 72 days until they were rescued. The audience at the AFF Gala was treated to a Q+A by one of those survivors - Coche

Inciarte and the documentary’s Oscar nominated director, Gonzalo Arijon (PIC:3).

One could have heard a pin drop during the screening of the film. Stranded was undoubtedly the cornerstone production for 2008 but there were some other jewels in the festival: the newest release from Sony Classics, Steep, the official story of the birth of extreme skiing and Sharkman, the remarkable portrait of one man’s quest to change our perception of the Great White, and finally Oil and Water, a 21,000 mile petrol-free road and kayak trip in a vintage fire truck converted to run on chip oil!

2009 2009’s AFF was a record breaker in many ways. It received a record number of film submissions (118); visited a record number of UK cinemas (31) and played to record audiences (over 23,000).

Audiences were treated to films like To the Rock and back (directed by Black Diamond’s Craig Johnson - who has been the designer behind the AFF for the last decade) - documenting Alex Thompson’s quest to win the 2009 Fastnet Race on the 30th Anniversary of the 1979 tragedy that killed over 20 competitors and rescue servicemen. The film went on to win the Award of Merit at the IndieFest in 2011. The

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1 Gala Premiere in London’s Leicester Square was another highlight. The invited audience of over 400 were treated to film shorts and live Q+As by the stars of a selection of AFF films including Matthew Sheahan (PIC:4) (a survivor of the Fastnet tragedy); Alex Thomson (PIC:4) (skipper of the Hugo Boss boat) Graham Bell (PIC:4) (TV presenter and UK Downhill Skier, who was invited to crew on the Hugo Boss boat) and the star of Adrenaline Junkie, Jack Osbourne (PIC:5), who flew in from LA to appear in person and talk about how his love of dangerous pursuits lead him to seek out and share a worldwide feast of some of the most crazy, thrill-spiked activities with like-minded celebrities.

2010 In 2010 and 2011, the look and feel of the AFF shifted slightly, with Canada’s West now our lead sponsor, we became known simply as Adventurefest.

Also new for 2010 was a series of six regional ‘talker’ screenings presented by Windhoek Lager, which let audiences marvel at Madagascar Maverick the extraordinary story of Riann Manser (PIC:6) and his 5,000km kayaking expedition around the island of Madagascar (the follow up to his 37,000km bike ride around the coast of Africa) and then have the opportunity to put questions

to the man himself. At the Gala Premiere, Riann was joined onstage by Ian Richardson (BASE-jumper and start of The Men Who Jump Off Buildings) and Alastair Lee (the director of The Asgard Project, featuring world class British climber Leo Houlding who was known for racing Jeremy Clarkson up a cliff face in Verdon Gorge on the BBC’s Top Gear).

2011 The 2011 AFF saw the welcome return of one of its closest supporters: Charley Boorman. An exclusive preview of Extreme Frontiers: Canada was the special treat for audiences nationwide. Made for Channel 5, the complete series of four episodes was screened the following Spring. The shows were once again directed by Russ Malkin and produced by Big Earth (Long Way Round, Long Way Down) with all post-production carried at Black Diamond’s in-house facilities in Covent Garden. Once again Charley (PIC:7) (and Russ this time too) joined us for an exclusive Q&A at the Gala Premiere.

The Gala stage was also graced by Mark Beaumont, who was the expedition cameraman on Rowing the Arctic. The film followed renowned Scots adventurer Jock Wishart, as part of a crew attempting to row to the North Pole.

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ADVENTUROUS DECADE

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CONTINUED

2012

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In 2012 Nissan once again took over the mantle of lead sponsor and with that came another slight shift in the name to Thrillseekers Adventure Film Festival.

The AFF was honoured to add Al Humphreys (PIC:8) to the distinguished list of guest speakers. Al was one of National Geographic’s Adventurers of the year in 2011 - so was a perfect addition to the AFF Gala.

The second guest speaker was pioneering ski mountaineer, Chris Davenport, who shared his stories of skiing all the big volcanoes in the Pacific North West.

With Nissan, the AFF also launched an new competition, with the winner offered the chance to not only embark on their own adventure, but to have it filmed - by legendary adventure-cameraman ‘Mungo’.

2013 8

And the winner was: Frank Dias. Frank’s dream adventure was to follow in the footsteps of Christopher McCandless (whose heartbreaking story was the subject of Sean Penn’s film ‘Into The Wild’) out in the Alaskan wilderness. The resulting film ‘Into The Wilderness’ became an integral part of the 2013 AFF. Frank took to the London stage to answer questions from a

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captivated audience (PIC:9). Frank was joined

by Britain’s top speed and solo climber, Leo Houlding, who spoke of his latest climb, a world-first ascent of the Ulvetanna Peak in Antarctica; and Sage Cattabrigga-Alosa, one of the world’s best known skiers.

2015 For the new year, a new name for the magazine: ADVENTUROUS; same size, same informative content and same stunning photography.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the many inspirational brands that have supported the AFF over the last decade.

Without them, it simply wouldn’t have been possible.

Finally, there’s one more group we have to thank for this last 10 years, and that’s you.

Whether it’s been changes of name, changes of style or changes of venue, the one constant has been our audience. May you continue to seek out the adventure!

CALIFORNIA ADVENTURE HOLIDAY from

£1,695 per person 9

Experience California’s Yosemite National Park and Mammoth Lakes on this fly/drive holiday full of activity and variety. Climb, hike, ride and raft with a backdrop of rugged mountain terrain, pristine wilderness and stunning views. From rock climbing to horseback riding; hiking to white water rafting and mountain biking to fly-fishing this trip brings you the great Californian outdoors. And visit America’s city by the bay, San Francisco too.

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For more information on this 12-night adventure go online at www.bon-voyage.co.uk/adventure or call our friendly team of experts on 023 80 248 248.

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NORTH OF THE SUN [NORWAY]

HIGHER [SWITZERLAND]

CRADLE OF STORMS [ALASKA]

UNDO EUROPE [SWITZERLAND] [ITALY]

SUFFERFEST [COLORADO]

VALLEY UPRISING [CALIFORNIA]

HIGHER [WYOMING] [NEPAL]

The Nissan Adventure Film Festival celebrates its 10th anniversary with 11 of the world’s most pioneering adventure and action sports films.

For 5 weeks from 8th January 2015 our three film programmes will bring a wide variety of adventure film content to nationwide audiences with festival screenings at 30 cinemas from Exeter to Inverness.

From hundreds of film submissions, the AFF panel has selected these 11 films to inspire, excite and entertain - creating

our strongest line-up yet. The quality of the content at this year’s event is a testament to the increasing skill of adventure filmmakers, the ever-improving technical equipment (and its accessibility) and the growing number of skilled athletes and artists setting out to make this type of film and inspire others to do the same.

With Himalayan snowboarding with Jeremy Jones in ‘Higher’; the wild history of rock climbing and counter culture in Yosemite in ‘Valley Uprising’ ; an epic mountain biking journey into Afghanistan’s remote

Wakhan Corridor in ‘Forgotten Dirt’ and an inspirational tale of 2 surfers who spend 9 months in the arctic circle living off the land and surfing under the northern lights in ‘North of the Sun’ (to name but a few) the AFF encourages audiences to explore and enjoy the world through adventure film.

Full film listings, venue details and tickets are available at adventurefest.co.uk You can also follow us on Facebook and Twitter for a range of exclusive content, including interviews with this year’s AFF stars and special offers.

ADVENTUROUS LOCATIONS FORGOTTEN DIRT [AFGHANISTAN]

KARUN [IRAN]

BEAUTY OF THE IRRATIONAL [SOUTH AFRICA]

MISSION ANTARCTICA [ANTARCTICA]

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TIMELINE MISSIONS PRESENTS

MISSION ANTARCTICA

PRODUCED BY Matthieu Giraud and Xavier de Le Rue DIRECTED BY Guido Perrini

When Xavier de le Rue, arguably the world’s best freeride snowboarder says: “It’s getting really serious now”, you know you’re in for something special. Thirsting for adventure, de le Rue invites fellow freestyle snowboarder Lucas Debari to join him, director Guido Perrini and a select film crew to journey to Antarctica with him on what proves to be the adventure of a lifetime.

A stormy five-day crossing of the infamously treacherous Drake Passage brings the crew to the Antarctic Peninsula, its majesty captured in immaculate detail by Perrini’s superb cinematography. Despite the beauty of the surroundings, however, snowboarding conditions are far from perfect and the mood hits rock bottom.

After 13 days, however, the weather clears, conditions improve and de le Rue and Debari’s long uphill climbs are rewarded with countless first descents. Touring past penguins on the ice cap, riding down

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snow board

virgin slopes to the ocean and tackling The Captain, what de le Rue describes as “the steepest thing I’ve ever seen”: this is where snowboarding crosses over into mountaineering and exploration. With Perrini’s stunning footage complementing toe-curlingly gnarly descents, this film is as much about the pristine beauty, rich wildlife and sheer scale of Antarctica as it is about snowboarding.

THE STEEPEST THING I’VE EVER SEEN

MISSION ANTARCTICA

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SURFER MAGAZINE FILMS PRESENTS

CRADLE OF STORMS

PRODUCED BY BRYCE LOWE-WHITE DIRECTED BY BRYCE LOWE-WHITE & BEN WEILAND

Brought to us by Surfer magazine, under the direction of Bryce Lowe-White and Ben Weiland, this film travels far from the exotic climes that provide the usual “Endless Summer” backdrop for surf flicks, deep into Alaska. We follow pro surfers Alex Gray, Josh Mulcoy and Peter Devries on a journey deep into the Aleutian Islands, which arch from Alaska towards Russia in some of the most volatile waters in the North Pacific.

It’s a pioneering quest: we’re more accustomed to cold water surfing in Scotland or Scandinavia than at the feet of snow-clad Alaskan volcanoes. Spending up to five hours a day riding ATVs through mud in search of good breaks, the trio discover perfect barrelling waves and dream slabs, which they share with each other, some reindeer and the occasional Arctic fox or eagle.

After three unusually balmy days, a storm hits, suspending surfing adventures and

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surf

exposing the true nature of the Aluetians.

However, a break enables the intrepid surfers to hit the icy waters again, catching barrel after barrel in a bay near their hut. Sharing their unadulterated joy in discovering these waves, riding for some five hours at a time in freezing waters, we also share their fresh perspective for Mother Nature in all her rugged, brutal splendour.

SOME OF THE MOST VOLATILE WATERS IN THE NORTH PACIFIC

CRADLE OF STORMS

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CEDAR WRIGHT MEDIA PRESENTS

SUFFERFEST

PRODUCED & DIRECTED BY CEDAR WRIGHT

This stylish film features climbers Cedar Wright and Alex Honnold on an epic threeweek mission to bike and climb all fifteen of California’s 14ers (peaks of 14,00ft and over).

No strangers to physical pain, the duo make self-deprecating jokes about their everyday struggles (sun burned thighs and saddle soreness) while actually pushing themselves to the very limits of endurance. Add a dash of life & death thrill to the challenge, they also make technical free soloing ascents of the peaks (climbing without ropes).

As with every mammoth adventure, there are highs and lows: summiting five peaks in one day in the Palisades has Wright and Honnold whooping with joy. Misjudging the route up Middle Palisade a few days later, summiting the wrong peak and then having to negotiate a loose, exposed knifeedge ridge traverse to summit the correct one, is less fun. A gruelling, unexpectedly long 14-hour bike ride up White Mountain

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climb /bike

delivers what Honold calls “among the worst experiences of my life.”

Despite the pain, danger and exhaustion the pair endure as they bike over 750 miles, hike over 100 miles and climb over 100,000 feet, they remain witty and upbeat, confident they’ll look upon the journey as a highlight of their lives - once the pain has gone.

BIKE AND CLIMB ALL FIFTEEN OF CALIFORNIA’S 14ERS

SUFFERFEST

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BLACK DIAMOND PRESENTS

KARUN

Produced by BLACK DIAMOND DIRECTED BY Tom Allen & Leon McCarron

A down-to-earth British film, Karun follows seasoned traveller Tom Allen and his friend Leon McCarron on a fascinating journey from the source of Iran’s 450-mile long Karun river to its mouth at the Persian Gulf. Starting in a snow blizzard in the Zard Kuh mountains, the intrepid adventurers travel on foot, in inflatable kayaks and on bicycles to complete their mission within the one-month timeframe imposed by their tourist visas.

Having prepared for the trip by learning Farsi, Iran’s primary language, Allen explains that travelling along the river is essentially an “excuse” to discover the local culture and meet its people. And, as the pair navigate through snow-clad mountains, along turbulent rapids in deep gorges and on treacherous roads winding high above the Karun, they’re welcomed by those locals with remarkable warmth and generous hospitality. Whether looking for a safe place to sleep at night, a replacement kayaking

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journey

paddle or a bicycle to borrow, the locals are unfailingly eager to help, showing that the ancient Persian practice of helping strangers is still very much alive.

HAVING PREPARED FOR THE TRIP LEARNING IRAN’S PRIMARY LANGUAGE

KARUN

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ANTHILL FILMS PRESENTS

FORGOTTEN DIRT PRODUCED & DIRECTED ANTHILL FILMS

This film takes us on a journey to Afghanistan’s remote Wakhan Corridor with legendary mountain biker and filmmaker Matt Hunter as our guide. We cross real and intangible borders with Hunter, taking three days to reach Afghanistan, travelling from Canada through Turkey and Tajikistan. Once there, Hunter and his small team spend five days crossing mountainous, river-punctured terrain in 4x4s to reach the start of their 12day bike trail. The team’s exhilaration on mounting up their bikes after the epic journey is tangible: blue skies, snowy peaks, glacial rivers and yak herders provide the backdrop to the single trails they speed along.

As the first people to attempt this trail by bike, the journey was never going to be easy.

Helmet-cam footage of Hunter hurtling along dramatic trails is accompanied by scenes of the team labouring up steep mountains under their bikes, pushing them through snowstorms and being forced to retreat

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mount -ain bike

from the 16,416ft Karabel Pass when the porters’ mules grind to a halt in deep snow.

As Hunter says: “This sucks.” However, the storm passes and the team make it into Big Pamir, with days of downhill riding to follow.

Forgotten Dirt not only shares Hunter’s ambitious journey but communicates the rarely-seen beauty of Afghanistan and warmth of its people.

GLACIAL RIVERS AND YAK HERDERS PROVIDE THE BACKDROP

FORGOTTEN DIRT

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UNDO EUROPE

PRODUCED & DIRECTED BY JAY EISENBERG

Short and sweet, this film from veteran BASE jumper Jay Eisenberg adopts the unusual method of depicting jumps in reverse. With the lush valleys and sheer granite rock faces of Switzerland spread out below us, we watch as wing-suited athletes fly backwards to take stand on the rocky outcrops and landing platforms from which they originally launched themselves. The footage is gritty and action-packed, with mostly point of view segments giving a real sense of the sensation and speed of flying, albeit in reverse.

At one point we fly upwards through a bank of cloud, at others we fly directly behind (or is it in front of?) a fellow BASE jumper back onto the platform, and at others again we jump and fly in groups of seven.

The unadulterated joy and enthusiasm of the jumpers pervades the film, leaving you with a sense of having lived life with them for a few brief moments.

DURATION : 5,614 FRAMES @ 24FPS

JOY AND ENTHUSIASM PERVADES THE FILM

base jump -ing

UNDO EUROPE

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NORTH OF THE SUN

Produced by Anne Bergseng DIRECTED BY Inge Wegge and Jørn Ranum

This inspirational film follows two friends, Inge Wegge (25) and Jorn Ranum (22), as they live for nine months on an uninhabited bay on Norway’s remote north coast. The enterprising duo build a cabin, complete with oven, from debris found on the beach and restrict themselves to buying food from the “local” shop (several hours’ hike away) that’s beyond its sell-by-date and would otherwise be discarded.

Beyond the challenge of leading a selfsufficient existence in this barren spot, Wegge and Ranum are drawn to the bay for its surf. Arriving in autumn, the break basks in sunshine until winter sets in: it’s north of the Arctic Circle and soon the boys are surfing in sub-zero temperatures in semidarkness, lit only by the Northern Lights.

Melting snow dripping through the roof into their cabin heralds the arrival of spring and jubilation as the sun returns to the bay for the first time in months. Throughout their

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stay, Wegge and Ranum collect rubbish from the beach, amassing 3 tonnes, which is collected by helicopter to be destroyed, ensuring their tenure not only enriches them but helps preserve their “paradise.”

Shot and edited with skill, artistry and wit

by Wegge and Ranum, this account of their extraordinary undertaking showcases their passion for surfing and the outdoors as well as their enterprising self-sufficiency.

NINE MONTHS ON AN UNINHABITED BAY

NORTH OF THE SUN

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DEAP PRESENTS

CONTINUE

Produced by DEAP DIRECTED BY Warren Verboom

What this film of extreme canyoning might lack in cinematography, it more than makes up for in relentless, adrenalinepumping action. ‘Continue’ is the second film put together by the Swiss-based Deap Canyoning crew, following ‘The Beginning’, which garnered success at several outdoor film festivals.

Warren Verboom, the leader of Deap Canyoning, features in, films and directs this on-the-edge-of-your-chair account of his team’s exploits in the Swiss Alps. With their death-defying leaps, eye-popping back flips and graceful dives, the Swiss/Brazilian gang redefine canyoning, displaying unparalleled athleticism and acrobatics.

Different segments of the film focus on the skills of various members of the team - Verboom, Lars Nobs, Laso Schaller and Börni Marsden among them - as they roll, slide, run, abseil and hurl themselves down sheer rock faces into pristine glacial pools. The gin-clear water

DURATION : 24,244 FRAMES @ 24FPS

canyon -ing

reveals just how close to the rocks these daredevils land and, when head-cams sink you down into the water with them, it’s hard to stop yourself holding your breath until they come up for air.

RELENTLESS, ADRENALINEPUMPING ACTION

CONTINUE

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TETON GRAVITY RESEARCH PRESENTS

HIGHER

Produced by Todd & Steve Jones and Jeff Harasimowicz DIRECTED BY Todd Jones & Steve Jones

This slick film featuring Jeremy Jones and Luca Pandolfi comes from the masters of adventure movies, Teton Gravity Research (TGR). It’s part biography of Jones (younger brother of TGR founders Todd and Steve Jones) and part account of his audacious bid to climb and snowboard Shangri La, a 21,400-ft peak in the Himalayas. Using old family photos, film and interviews with Jones’ family, his deep-rooted passion for snowboarding is laid bare. From backyard riding aged nine, Jones went on to dedicate his life first to competitive riding and then to pioneering professional big mountain riding.

Inspired by an old photograph of the towering spines of Shangri La sent to him by a friend, Jones determines to travel to Nepal, climb the peak and ride down it. It’s no mean feat: it takes Jones, Pandolfi and the film crew 3 weeks just to reach base camp and acclimatise. An early foray onto Shangri La, some 60 degrees pitch in places,

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snow board

sees Jones fall thousands of feet in a sluff, highlighting the danger of this challenge. On day 32, Jones and Pandolfi shelter by the summit for over 3 hours waiting for clouds to clear from the face. Out of luck, they’re faced with a perilous hike down. Undeterred, Jones returns alone to summit Shangri La once more and is rewarded with success, albeit in the form of some 22,000 feet of icy, hard-packed, no-fall zone riding. Just be warned: Jones’ helmet cam footage will induce vertigo.

INSPIRED BY THE TOWERING SPINES OF SHANGRI LA

HIGHER

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THE AFRICAN ATTACHMENT PRESENTS

THE BEAUTY OF THE IRRATIONAL PRODUCED BY GREG FELL DIRECTED BY DEAN LESLIE

DURATION : 8,905 FRAMES @ 24FPS

One of South Africa’s leading adventure filmmakers, Dean Leslie imbues this account of the battle of his compatriot and friend, ultrarunner Ryan Sandes, against Namibia’s infamous Fish River Canyon Trail with passion and beauty. The film encapsulates the grandeur of Fish River Canyon, the world’s second largest canyon, through Leslie’s distinctive cinematography: sweeping landscape shots and time lapse sequences set the scene, and scale, of Sandes’ mission.

Sandes talks candidly about his failed attempts to break the 10hr 54mins record for running the 85-km trail (completed in five days by hikers). His meticulous planning and respect for the canyon are apparent, yet his exuberance as he runs down Hiker’s Descent and up knife-edge ridges is infectious and inspirational. When he completes the course in just 6hr 57mins, his celebration is understated yet heartfelt.

canyon -ing

Despite Sandes’ remarkable feat, The Beauty of the Irrational strives for even greater perspective, extending his battle to overcome adversity in Fish Canyon to relate more generally to life’s struggles. “Which set of footprints do you take?” Sandes asks as the camera pans out from him running along a dry riverbed to take in the vast canyon. “Or do you make your own path…”

WHICH SET OF FOOTPRINTS DO YOU TAKE?

THE BEAUTY OF THE IRRATIONAL

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SENDER FILMS PRESENTS

VALLEY UPRISING

DIRECTED BY GREG LAUT

This award-winning, feature-length movie about the turbulent history and enduring love affair with rock climbing in Yosemite is also an exploration of America’s counterculture through the past 60 years. The constantly evolving “outlaw activity” of rock climbing in California’s legendary valley emerges as the ideal reflection of the issues generations of Americans have experienced with authority, asserting personal freedom and pushing boundaries. That’s not to say Sender Films takes itself too seriously: by tweaking 1960s silver gelatin prints with Wes Andersonstyle artistry and wit, using death-defying freeclimbing and BASE jumping footage, and bringing Yosemite’s climbing legends alive through interviews and personal accounts - all set to a great soundtrack - the film remains entertaining throughout.

The film starts in the 1950s during the Beatnik era: penniless bums such as the pioneering Royal Robbins and Warren

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climb

Harding were drawn to Yosemite by the words of Jack Kerouac and John Muir, seeking to live life pushing the limits of their own capabilities, and authority. The 1970s brought the next phase of the “revolution”: the Stonemasters, who evolved rock climbing to new levels of athleticism, daring and celebrity. By the late 1990s, the Stone Monkeys had taken over, with climbers such as Dean Potter and Alex Honnold continuing to drive climbing forward with dizzying free climbs, speed climbing and BASE jumping.

PERSONAL FREEDOM AND PUSHING BOUNDARIES

VALLEY UPRISING

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OPEN WATER There has been a surge of interest in open water swimming through both the growth of the “Wild Swimming” phenomenon and popularity of triathlons.

Cutting through the crystal clear waters of the Med along the Riviera, swimming in the sea around Burgh Island or another iconic UK landmark, or slicing through the calm waters of a beautiful lake such as Shepperton Lake, can take you into another world.

Not since Lord Byron’s swim in the footsteps of Greek Legend with his swim from Europe to Asia across the Hellespont, has there been so much interest in the sport.

Open Water Swimming is the ultimate adventure sport. There is something for all ages and abilities that can take you safely in stages out of your comfort zone. From making that first small swim in a lake, to swimming the Dart 10k, or even making an epic and iconic crossing such swimming from Alcatraz to the mainland.

So why is Open Water Swimming good for you?

1. Its cheap and easy to get into.

2. It is perfect for all ages and levels.

3. Exercises all the muscle groups in a low

So what do you do, when Teddington, Wimbledon or wherever your local baths are, simply don’t excite you any more? You may have felt the exhilaration of surfing, kitesurfing and windsurfing, but where do you go now as far as your swimming goes?

impact way.

4. By being conducted outdoors, you have a bonus endorphin rush.

5. It is good for mind, spirit and body.

6. It can save your life There is no substitute for mastering the art of cruising in the great outdoors. Once you’ve done it a few times, swimming in a pool will be like running on a treadmill. In many ways it can be easier too. Swimming in salt water and or with a wetsuit gives you increased buoyancy, and many (especially men) find they unlock their super-swimmer persona once in open water.

Then of course there is the sheer romance swimming. Lord Byron was onto something, and was at pains to point out that he wanted to be recognised as Britain’s greatest swimmer rather than poet. Swimming albeit Durdle Door, or around Burgh Island, or the bays around Portofino and the Cinque Terre, add a completely new dimension to a sport, that can sometime hardly feel like one you’re having so much fun.

Throw in epic local cuisine and culture and your open water hobby can will be rattling off those items on your bucket list ticking, whilst enhancing and probably

prolonging your life! Not bad for a not so new sport?

It does help to sort that stroke out. With Winter upon us, now is the time to sort out an efficient and beautiful front crawl, so you can hit the ground/water, swimming next season!

Swim Lab organise a Winter Swim clinic every Sunday at the gorgeous, ‘heated’ open air Hampton Pool. It’s aimed at those wanting to improve that stroke, or simply get fit for that first Tri. There are also intense weekend Swim Clinics at the epic Watergate Bay Hotel in Cornwall, and of course coaching from intro to Ironman at the secluded Shepperton Lake from May 2015.

Contact: salim@swimlab.org.uk or call 07966 161 295 www.swimlab.org.uk

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ADVENTUREFEST.CO.UK PHOTOGRAPH BY BRETT LOWELL (VALLEY UPRISING)

DON’T WAIT FOR THE ADVENTURE TO FIND YOU