Northern Irish surf pro Al Mennie took on a different challenge this month, when he paddled a surfboard from the Giant's Causeway to Scotland in the name of charity.
"It will be the northernmost crossing of its type in the world," said Mennie of the 25-mile route from Antrim to the Scottish island of Islay.
It had been two months of solid training and preparation. Al Mennie and crew after a restless night set off from the Giants Causeway on the Antrim coast, its beauty hidden by darknes.
Al approaches Islay. Photo: Conn Osborne
A well paced start of three hours and calmer conditions gave way to a challenge of a stiff side wind and buffeting seas, this would prove demanding and speed sapping. More challenges awaited as the Middle Bank lay in wait.. a swirling lump of water that draws everthing into and around it.
Al found this challanging as the effort out weighed the results as time, speed and distance updates were called out to him, foresight, the support of friends (the crew) and sheer determination and willingness to succeed would prove that this Giant paddle to be completed in far from ideal conditions in Nine Hours and twenty-five minutes.
After completing the challange for Charity.. Heart, Chest and Stroke, (donations can be made via his website.. Al Mennie.com) Al rests happily at home, all be it a little tired.
