Going the extra mile in the name of charity

Two Bondi residents will trek thousands of miles in two separate adventures to raise money for charity.

Alan Slater is walking from San Francisco to New York raising money for Cancer Research UK.

Felix Clark is driving from England to Mongolia raising money for the Christina Noble Children’s Foundation, and taking part in the annual Mongol Rally.

“This is a great way to quench our thirst for adventure and make a difference at the same time,” said the pair, who work at Cafe Bellagio in Waverley.

Alan is carefully planning his route to avoid extreme weather but facing harsh conditions will be inevitable during the 10-month journey.

“The walk through Nevada will be a test for me as it may take three or four days to reach the next town,” said Alan, who anticipates going through at least four pairs of boots.

Inspired by the American Discovery Trail, Alan’s route includes National Parks in Utah and the Rocky Mountains in Colorado.

“But it’s not set in stone and I may change it along the way,” he said.

Alan is equally excited about lesser known places and their residents.

“There are a lot of generous people out there. I can’t wait to meet them and raise awareness of a good cause.”

The route Felix will follow in the Mongol Rally requires a lot more planning, as there are visa implications for most countries he intends to visit.

Pending approval of his Iranian visa, the plan is to take the old Silk Road, driving a 1.2L engine Corsa through Iran, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.

“This is the most romantic and interesting route,” said Felix.

“It’s not about the destination; it’s about the journey itself.”

He expects to arrive in Mongolia after six weeks of adventure, accompanied by his adventure partner Chris Evans and a life-size mannequin named John.

“John is our mascot and will come with us to the finish line,” said Felix. The pair will carry school supplies in the car to donate to families along the way.

All proceeds will go to charity so Felix Clark and Alan Slater are open to corporate sponsorships and donations. For more information and to wish them well on their adventures, visit www.justgiving.com/alan-slater1 or www.justgiving.com/the-little-aussie-battlers.

By Rafael M. Garcia