Soaring Down the Weser: A Daring Fundraiser - Paddling for a Purpose, Day and Night
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Charitable Expedition Along the Weser: Battered by Day, Embraced by Night - Voyages Aligned with a Noble Intent: Day and Night Expeditions along the Weser
Four venture-seeking fellas embark on a nearly 431 kilometer odyssey on a whopping 5-meter extended stand-up paddleboard (SUP). The daring crew, known as the Weser4Lions, intend to conquer this grueling distance within 100 thrilling hours. Their aim is to rouse funds for the children's hospice, Löwenzahn, through this high-spirited endeavor.
They slumber on the board
"By nightfall, two of us take a nap side-by-side on the board, while the remaining comrades keep paddling," elaborates participant Axel Bischof to D Pa via Hameln's waterway. Recently, they experienced chilly temps, "yet it was still exhilarating since we witnessed an enchanting sunrise." Safety precautions are paramount to the team, as Bischof clarifies, each member dons a life jacket, ensuring their safety while sleeping.
At certain intervals, the men briefly detour from the water. "As we tackle seven locks along the way, level transfers are required, just like this here in Hameln," outlines Bischof. These quick breaks serve dual purposes: refueling and nourishment. However, they can also dine elsewhere, as the team boasts two support vehicles that follow closely, providing food on-demand. Water supplies and energy bars have also been strategically stocked on board.
An exciting charity expedition
"Supporting compassionate causes is crucial," voices participant Ulf Schwarz, emphasizing their charitable escapade. "We paddle relentlessly for Löwenzahn Children's Hospice in Syke, as we favor their exemplary mission." According to Schwarz, all German hospices contribute significantly to society.
The greatest challenges of this aquatic tour, as Schwarz acknowledges, are the bone-chilling evenings, teethed winds, and oceanic forces. "Heavy winds can be daunting, while from Bremen on, tides await us – initially a boon, pushing us forward for six gleeful hours, then, for another arduous six, the North Sea will buffet us relentlessly."
The intrepid crew, consisting of Axel Bischoff, Adrian Wachendorf, Matthias Buse, and Ulf Schwarz, with Sascha Pretzel as an alternate, commenced their endeavor on Wednesday from Hannoversch Münden. They seek to conquer 431 kilometers on the Weser River to Bremerhaven within 100 hours[1][2].
Their journey is accomplished on a massive SUP, measuring 5.50-meters long and 2-meters wide, and they sleep on board while two members propel the vessel throughout the duration[2].
As of the latest updates, the team is on track to complete their journey by Sunday afternoon[2].
They are fundraising for the Kinderhospiz Löwenherz in Syke, a children's hospice serving those in need[1][2].
- Participant Axel Bischof mentions the crew's extraordinary overnight rest, stating, "By nightfall, two of us take a nap side-by-side on the board, while the remaining comrades keep paddling."
- During the expedition, the Weser4Lions occasionally leave the water, as Bischof explains, "As we tackle seven locks along the way, level transfers are required, just like this here in Hameln."
- The Weser4Lions' motivation for the adventure is rooted in charitable endeavors, as Schwarz affirms, "Supporting compassionate causes is crucial ... We paddle relentlessly for Löwenzahn Children's Hospice in Syke."
- The team is fortunate to have two support vehicles accompanying them, which cater to their nutritional needs, as Bischof notes, "Water supplies and energy bars have also been strategically stocked on board."
- The Weser4Lions' mission, 'Soaring Down the Weser: A Daring Fundraiser', is a unique 431 kilometer adventure on a 5-meter SUP, which they aim to complete in 100 hours. This challenging journey takes place on the Weser River and has the goal of raising funds for the children's hospice, Löwenzahn, through their endeavor.
