Navy veteran Gavin takes on gruelling Yukon challenge

An armed forces veteran is perparing to take on one of his toughest challenges to date, in a bid to help out fellow ex-service personnel.
Gavin ClarkGavin Clark
Gavin Clark

Former serviceman Gavin Clark, 42, from Gosport, will be taking on the gruelling Yukon Arctic ultra-challenge in Canada to raise money for Blesma, a charity that supports limbless veterans and their families.

The 100-mile Yukon Arctic ultra-challenge will see Gavin pushed to his physical limits – as the temperature plummets below minus 50 degrees Celsius, he will be walking and pulling a sledge through thick snow, ice and wilderness.

He will have New Zealander Richard Charles alongside him.

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Gavin was discharged from the Royal Navy six years ago due to multiple traumatic injuries and suffers from non-freezing cold injury to both his feet.

He also has a lack of sensation in his right hand, increasing the risk of frostbite, and two amputated fingers.

Last year Gavin was forced to pull out of the bi-annual event after his toes and thumb became affected by frostbite.

Gavin, who now works in a GP surgery, said: ‘Last year, I was in second place and focused on catching up with the guy in first place.

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‘This year the aim is to enjoy the challenge and finish, rather than focusing on a good finishing position.

‘I’ll also have Richard, so we can support each other.

‘I’m feeling a little bit anxious due to what happened last year. I’m hoping that the weather is more friendly this year.’

To support Gavin and Blesma, go to justgiving.com/fundraising/gavin-clark6.

The challenge will begin on Thursday, February 1.