Newquay man Ian Bodman and his Brother in Law John Reeves from Southampton have completed their cross continent trip which started on Boxing Day.
The Banjul Challenge started in Newquay before they headed south through France, Spain, Morocco and the Anti Atlas Mountains. They then ventured on through the western Sahara, Mauritania and Senegal before finally arriving in Banjul in The Gambia.
They survived a grueling route that was not only made up of tarmacked roads but unmade roads, mountain tracks and beaches: all in an early ‘90s Renault Clio!
As a condition of entry, all vehicles must be donated to the Control Committee in The Gambia. The vehicles are auctioned and the funds raised are then distributed to worthy causes. This is the only way that it can be legitimately done to ensure the best value is obtained and that funds are distributed appropriately.
Ian and John, also known as TEAM KRNO KENZA took with them the small Joe Way banner, which has now travelled the equivalent of 11 times around the world clocking up over 430,000km, equating to the same distance from the earth to the moon and back.
Ian Bodman said, “When the opportunity arose to drive across parts of North and Western Africa in an old banger, I leapt at the chance and with the added bonus of raising funds both at home and in The Gambia. One things for sure, I’ll never complain about a pot holed road again!”
Local companies have joined forces to sponsor the car: The Garage Co, Hutton hire, Colourworx, Newquay Garden Center, Lantallic Construction, Newquay Tile Center, Riverside Holiday Park, Dudden Construction, Bathroom Studio, Ace Engineering, Cornwall Cooker Conversions, Braefel Garage, The Whipsiderry Hotel and Sandpiper together with Studs Sports who donated footballs which where given out to the local children along the way. Stationery was also donated by Penver’s and help was also given by individuals!
Matt Way, Joe’s Dad said, “This was a great challenge which helped raise the profile of Joe’s story and has so far raised over £1500.00 for Children’s Hospice South West by businesses paying to advertise on the car as well as individual donations which are amazing.”
Local boy Joe Way was born with a rare genetic condition and lost his battle in May 2008, aged just 4. He had been labeled a miracle boy after surviving meningitis, a potentially deadly skin reaction SJS (Steven Johnson Syndrome) numerous superbugs but finally died of complete organ failure after suffering SJS from for a second time.
Since Joe’s death his parents have campaigned tirelessly to raise money for over 20 causes in his name, raising more than £122,000 in total.
Perranporth signs have donated all the stickers for the car and you can donate on Ian’s Just Giving page and see more photos of the teams adventure here at:
www.facebook.com/TeamKernoKenza
The anuual Joe Way Paddle for Life will be held Thursday 26th June, 4pm at Newquay Harbour.
To learn more about Joe Way Paddle For Life, visit www.joewaypaddle.co.uk
For more information please contact: info@joeway.co.uk or Matt Way on 07761079454 or Ian Bodman on 07767400684.
