Damien Rider kicks off expedition to paddle across eight atolls in eight days

Popular extreme adventure sports athlete, Damien Rider, has kicked off his expedition to paddle across eight Maldivian islands in eight days for a world record on Friday morning.

The starting point of Rider’s expedition was Hulhumale’ Ferry Terminal’s jetty area. He will conclude his journey on February 24^th, at zero degrees, which is the equator.

Rider’s journey will be the longest distance paddled in the Maldives and will also make him the only person to paddle this channel.

In an earlier interview to Sun, Rider said that he will be utilizing a paddle boat specifically build for the expedition in Thailand.

Briefing on his preparations, Rider emphasized there will be obstructions as he takes up a never-before-endeavored challenge in a nation with an equatorial climate such as the Maldives.

“This would be super tough for me. The hotness, current and waves of the sea and the direction of wind, these things will remain a challenge. I will paddle for 12 hours per day without a break. Will only make stops to eat, hydrate and rest,” he said.

During his journey, Rider will make stops at seven islands; K. Maafushi, V. Rakeedhoo, M. Kolhufushi, Th. Guraidhoo, L. Fonadhoo, Maanagaalaa and GDh. Vaadhoo.

Updates regarding his journey will be shared on social media. The course can also be viewed on live tracking website. He will also showcase the islands where he makes stops through livestreams. The documented journey can be viewed in 54 countries.

Ooredoo Maldives is among the sponsors of this journey.

Rider is an extreme adventure sports athlete who holds 15 world records. He is also a popular author and motivational speaker.

Rider has previously paddled solo, 800 kilometers for 17 days, in the most shark-infested summer Australia has ever seen.