Jurassic 24

Pulford Publicity’s Cause of the Year: Clean Jurassic Coast CIC

In August, Roy Beal from Clean Jurassic Coast set out on a personal challenge to paddle the Jurassic Coast in under 24 hours to raise money for Clean Jurassic Coast and the Jurassic Coast Trust.

Roy completed the challenge by kayak, travelling 82 miles in 22 hours, 12 minutes and 45 seconds. He started at Old Harry Rocks on 16 August, and finished at Orcomble Point, Exmouth the following day, travelling solo along the route.

Roy spoke to Louis Pulford about the challenge.

So Roy, what inspired you to paddle the coast in 24 hours?

My friend Derry ran it last year in 23.5 hours. I was curious to see if it could be done in a kayak, especially because of the tidal planning involved.

What was your training regime leading up to the challenge?

Kayaking – as much kayaking as possible. I have also been doing safety support for 24-hour swimming events, which helped a lot.

How do you prepare yourself mentally to undertake such a challenge?

I am fortunate in that I have a never-give-up mentality. Once I set myself a task I always do my best to see it through. In my head, I visualise parts of the challenge and what I may have to do in different circumstances.

What planning did you have to do before setting off?

It’s mainly the tides. From the start at Old Harry to Portland Bill, there are fast tides and challenging conditions around some of the headlands. I also planned my food and hydration stops along the way.

Roy at Durdle Door

What was the most challenging aspect of this fundraiser?

Dealing with hallucinations after 20 hours. I was heading towards Sidmouth and I witnessed it moving about a mile to the west!

What did you enjoy most on this journey?

Hmm, either arriving at Portland Bill at 19.15 – the exact time I planned to arrive, or finishing at Exmouth to be greeted by my partner Chloë. Both were good moments. Also – getting through the night shift in one piece was nice too.

Lastly, what do you love about the Jurassic Coast?

Everything! The geodiversity for a start. There is nowhere else on Earth where you can see the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretacious era in one area. It’s unique, it’s beautiful and it’s my playground.

Roy has nearly reached his £999 fundraising target. If you would like to donate to support him and help keep the Jurassic Coast clear of plastic visit www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/jurassic-24

So far this year CJC has removed over three tonnes of plastic from the coastline.