A British Army veteran has completed a 28-year journey across four continents, swimming the English Channel to reach England this week. Karl Bushby, a 57-year-old former paratrooper, set out on his expedition in 1998, aiming to walk around the world without using transportation such as planes, trains, boats, or cars.
Bushby's journey has taken him over 30,000 miles and through 29 countries, including the length of South America, North America, and across the Bering Strait between Alaska and Russia. He has faced numerous obstacles along the way, including visa restrictions, the loss of sponsors, COVID-19 lockdowns, and geopolitical turmoil.
In recent years, Bushby has relied on book sales, speaking engagements, donations, and corporate sponsorships to continue his expedition. A documentary production company has also provided support for the past 16 years. Bushby's latest challenge was swimming the English Channel, which he completed in three days, covering approximately 20 hours in the water.
According to Bushby, the swim was not without its difficulties. He experienced cramping and doubted whether he could finish, but managed to persevere, finding a rhythm and distracting himself from the physical pain by floating on his back at night and looking at the stars.
Bushby still has approximately 250 miles left to walk before reuniting with his mother, whom he hasn't seen in 11 years. He is expected to arrive in the port city of Hull in early November, bringing an end to his 28-year journey.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
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