New Year’s day was when Anthony Ing and Chuck Norris (A.K.A Chuck) set off from Liverpool dock. Leaving the west coast of England, with the east coast firmly in their sights. This epic paddle of 160 miles is with the aim of raising money for Suicide Prevention UK, a charity close to their hearts. We caught up with them after they had completed this challenge to see how it went!

The Challenge

Paddling from Liverpool Dock in the West to Goole Dock in the East, passing through the quiet middle England town of Skipton. This tranquil journey unfolds along the official Canal and River Trust UK coast to coast trail, navigating 91 locks, including the famous 21 lock Wigan flight.

In the backdrop of challenging, cold, and adverse weather conditions, Ant and Chuck see this venture as an opportunity to navigate both mental and physical landscapes. It’s not just a physical challenge; it’s a thoughtful journey. And as if the paddling wasn’t tough enough already, they planned to sleep rough (under bridges and outside) the whole way.

Why?

Every day, suicide takes around 19 people from their families and friends in the UK and Ireland— that’s over 7000 a year .

This January marks 8 years since Chuck overcame several negative spirals of suicidal thoughts and personal mental health challenges. In response, he enlisted his best pal, Ant Ing, to do something that may offer a candle of light and hope to others facing similar struggles.

Initially, the challenge was about facing adversity alone. But as a true friend, Ant Ing has transformed the idea into one that involves others. One that is still full of personal hardship and adversity but opens the heart and adventure to others. When facing difficult moments and awful “temporary” thoughts, it’s time to share and be around others; this helps people avoid making the wrong permanent choice.

In January, when the struggle against suicidal thoughts intensifies, the boys are uniting to emphasise the importance of showing up for loved ones. Together, they and you can make a difference and save lives.

Suicide Prevention UK are a charity who aim to help anyone who may be struggling with their mental health and having harmful thoughts. Volunteers are onhand to signpost those in need to the best and most relevant help a person may need.

Training

It was incredibly impressive how Chuck went from a 20-30km a day paddler to 60km+ in around a month. It was incredible dedication to his training that got him to that level, meaning he could smash the challenge. As important as the physical training was, he spent lots of time on his technique. This allows all physical effort to be put to best use through paddle strokes.

The Action

We set off Monday 1st at 12pm, arriving at Goole just under 100 hours later. We were pleased with that, especially as we experienced some harder paddling conditions than we had anticipated. 

The challenge was extremely hard, but doing it with a friend helped get you through the tough bits. It was a surprise how ‘thick’ some parts of the canal felt. Where it was more rural the water felt like syrup at times.

In the harder moments the friendship and support we had kept us going. Tough times made easier by bank support from complete strangers who would run alongside, offer food, and donate money online. Each night we checked messages before going to bed and that gave us a lift for the next day’s gruelling paddle.

Crossing the finish line felt amazing, as it does with any challenge. Having all our friends and family there was fantastic. But we enjoyed the whole journey along the way. From 2 years ago coming up with the idea, planning a route, and training for it, to cross the line and finish was great. However, we can’t wait to potentially think up a new challenge.

I didn’t think I was going to enjoy the amount of miles whe would have to physically do, but we did actually enjoy that aspect. It was incredibly rewarding to see the miles clocking up. The level of support also gave us a huge buzz along the way.

Amazing work from Ant and Chuck! Their donation page is still open if you want to show them support, just follow the link below.

https://www.justgiving.com/page/paul-norris-1701103046394#timelineUpdates

If you, or someone you love, are struggling and require help please see some useful links and numbers below.

• Suicide Prevetion UK – 0800 689 5652
• The Samaritans – 116 123
• The NHS emergency helpline
• Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258
• Papyrus – Call 0800 068 4141 or text 07860039967