Thrill Seekers

A sky diver, hiker, adventure rider and a scuba diver share what draws them to the outdoors.

TALISA LANOE : THE SKYDIVER @talisalanoe

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.

ROOP SINGH KHALSA : THE ADVENTURE RIDER @adventureriders254

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 boat to Manda Island and Shela. Feeling the breeze came as a relief after a long, adventurous ride.

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.

What’s your dream trip?

To travel the world on my motorcycle. I believe life is short and riding to as many destinations as possible makes every second count. Meeting new people, capturing moments, happily accepting surprises on the road and enjoying every kilometer of the journey- this to me is the true adventure.

Would you trade your bike for a car?

No...any person who owns a car should make an effort to learn how to ride a motorcycle. The thrill is riveting.

AZIM ASGER : THE SCUBA DIVER @wind_obsession

What draws you to the ocean?

My love for the ocean dates back to my childhood...it may sound corny but my first memory is that of the ocean. It gives me a sense of freedom and I am inspired by its colours, especially during sunrise and sunset. The variety of marine life is beyond beautiful. I have equally met amazing people in my life because of getting myself out there.

How did you get to be a diving and windsurfing instructor?

I was five when I first went diving with my father who used to be an instructor. My love for the sport had me enrolling for PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) and from there, I became certified. As for surfing, I would go to the beach, rent a cracked board for Ksh 40 or simply find a plank of wood and try balance whilst pretending to be surfing. After a great deal of practice and learning, I am now a windsurfing instructor. I now also advocate for marine life and coral reef conservation as well as plastic free oceans.

What have been some of your best or even scary moments under water?

I remember swimming with two giant whale sharks, which was an unbelievable experience. It’s always pleasant encountering a pod of dolphins during dives and joining them for a swim. Another best moment was seeing a shark while undergoing my PADI training. The excitement was comparative to seeing a lion while on safari. Scary moments are when my student divers get too excited upon seeing something interesting and they tend to swim away to explore. This is always a risk and I can only hope I am fast enough to stop them.

MIRIAM AMIANI : THE HIKER @just.mimie

How did you get into hiking?

I started off in January 2016 after making the ceremonial New Year’s resolutions. I had decided to indulge in two new activities that would challenge me: hiking and riding motorcycles. One day I signed up for a hike up Mt Longonot. I got rained on and was soaking wet from my head to my shoes, but I actually enjoyed that. I knew it was something I would continue doing whenever I got the chance.

What do you love most about hiking?

Being in the mountains is a great break from the chaotic city life that I live. Aside from reconnecting with myself, I have met amazing people and most of my valuable friendships have been made in the mountains. Hiking has been a constant reminder that nothing good comes easy. The hike may be treacherous but once at the summit, you see the beauty of the universe beneath you and say to yourself it that it was all worth it.

What draws you to the outdoors?

It’s the best way to spend time alone or with friends. The solitude gives you time to think about life, get new ideas and reduce stress levels while keeping fit. Once in a while, it’s good to actually stop and smell the flowers...talk about free aromatherapy! Creating great memories and bonding with friends is something I have come to value about being outdoors.

Any advice to readers who want to take it up?

Hiking starts with your mental state; if you perceive it, then summiting is as easy as ABC. All you need is a good pair of hiking shoes and a good attitude. Every mountain has its own experience and it always brings out something new about ourselves.