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SEEKERS A sky diver, hiker, adventure rider and a scuba diver share what draws them to the outdoors.
You are an Olympian, what does that entail? As an Olympian, swimming becomes more of a lifestyle than a sport. I moved away from home at a young age to attend a sports boarding school. This was characterised by long training hours, numerous competitions around the world and many sacrifices. However, looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing. The journey to the Olympics taught me so many lessons and helped shape the person I am today. How did you get into skydiving? I believe in living life to the fullest and as such, skydiving was on my bucket list. After my first (and only) tandem skydive, I didn’t get much fulfilment. I therefore decided to take the AFF course and get my license. I wanted to see the world from a different perspective and have the freedom to fly. Since then, I have completely fallen in love with this sport, and it reminds me that you are capable of doing anything you set your mind to. Getting my license was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Aside from Skydiving, what other adrenaline driven activities have you immersed yourself in? I love anything that makes me feel alive. I free dive and rock climb. I also love to wakeboard, kite surf and scuba dive. Sometimes I fear I will give my mother a heart attack because I am always either jumping out of planes or high edges, or swimming with big fish! What do you love about the outdoors? The fresh air, and the feeling of being such a small thing amidst this vast and incredible world. I don’t like being confined within four walls. When I immerse myself in nature, the sky or even under water, I feel grounded, humbled and so inspired.
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ROOP SINGH KHALSA THE ADVENTURE RIDER @adventureriders254
boat to Manda Island and Shela. Feeling the breeze came as a relief after a long, adventurous ride.
What’s been your most memorable ride thus far? I went to Addis Ababa with friends, and it took us three days. From searching for fuel in unexpected places to celebrating the Ethiopian New Year upon arrival, this is one of my favourite adventures to date. Immersing myself in the country’s rich culture was one of my highlights. The traditional food, coffee and hospitality will have me returning. Another memorable ride was to Garissa, Lamu and thereafter Malindi. We however had to park the bikes at a local’s home for two days then take a
What satisfaction do you get in being outdoors, especially with your bike? The experience is priceless. There is so much satisfaction when the sun hits your face in the morning, when relaxing to a magical sunset or being soothed by the sound of a river and chirping birds. Getting around by bike will definitely take you farther and deeper within a short time while being in contact with all the elements of nature. The sense of self-sufficiency and independence is unmatched. All you need is a great playlist to listen to inside your helmet and you’re set.
PHOTOGRAPHS: COURTESY
TALISA LANOE THE SKYDIVER @talisalanoe
