Adventurer and all around thrill seeker Lucy Barnard is set to walk the world. Starting back in February 2017, Lucy plans to cover 30,000 kilometres within three years. Starting in Ushuaia, at the southernmost tip of South America and ending at the northernmost point of North America in Barrow, Alaska, Lucy has her work cut out for her.
“I am an energetic, outdoor enthusiast who never shies from a challenge or concedes that it can’t be done. Born into an active family I inherited my love of adventure from my father who never saw limitations in the ability of his daughters. 34 years on, I am an aspiring adventure journalist building my online presence to transition into a career as a professional expedition lead, motivator and author.”
This expedition has been two years in the making and has not been without challenges. Most notably, 12 months ago Lucy was hit by a car during an endurance cycling event. She was temporarily paralysed, became aphasic, lost significant proportion of muscle mass and memory. Since then, she has worked tirelessly to regain her previous condition and improve her attitude towards caring for her physical and mental health.
“I have pushed the limits of self-determination and gained valuable skills and techniques that will support me along the more challenging aspects of the expedition. It is easier to defy odds with a community behind me, people who are encouraging and keenly await success.”
On completion of this feat Lucy will become the first woman to walk the length of the world. It was first completed by George Meegan in 1982, who holds the Guinness World record for the longest unbroken march of all time.
Lucy won the North Face Adventure Grant for 2017, helping her to continue on with her amazing journey. The Adventure Grant allows applicants to turn their expedition dreams into a reality. Applications for their 2018 grant are closing soon, so if you are a budding explorer keen on getting your next great adventure started then this grant would be perfect for you.
SheSociety is a site for the women of Australia to share our stories, our experiences, shared learnings and opportunities to connect.
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