Ex-Royal Marine Completes Epic 8,000-Mile Triathlon for Charity
From Dover to the Top of the World: Ex-Royal Marine Completes Epic 8,000-Mile Triathlon for Charity
Sunday, 11 May 2025 | 12:42 EDT
Mitch Hutchcraft, a former Royal Marine from Cambridgeshire, has completed what he calls “the world’s longest triathlon”—an extraordinary 240-day journey spanning over 13,000 kilometers (8,077 miles) and culminating at the summit of Mount Everest.
The 32-year-old adventurer set out from Dover, UK, on 14 September last year. His mission: to raise funds for SavSim, a wildlife conservation and mental health charity supporting veterans. His route took him through seas, across continents, and up the world’s tallest mountain.
The journey began with a 34km swim across the English Channel, followed by an 11,929km cycle ride from France to India. From there, Hutchcraft ran 900km through the subcontinent to Kathmandu, Nepal, before trekking 365km to Everest base camp. On Sunday at 7:20am Nepal time, he stood atop the 8,849-metre (29,032ft) peak—completing what he described as “the longest Everest climb in history.”
“It was more magical than I ever imagined,” Hutchcraft said. “Even though I lost my dad 11 years ago, he’s been with me every step. This has been the toughest thing I’ve ever done—but also the most fulfilling.”
Hutchcraft expressed heartfelt thanks to his guide, renowned Nepali climber Gelje Sherpa, and the Project Limitless documentary crew chronicling his odyssey. “We finally did it,” he shared on Instagram, reflecting on months of mental and physical endurance.
His inspiration to climb Everest began as a child, sparked by a photo in a book. “Never did I imagine I’d reach it like this,” he wrote in a post from base camp before his final ascent. “Swimming the Channel, cycling across 19 countries, running to Nepal—it’s been a dream built on years of preparation and grit.”
Hutchcraft’s road wasn’t without peril. He was hit by a taxi, chased by wild dogs, and even held at gunpoint in Serbia. But not all company was dangerous—during his European cycling leg, he was accompanied by his loyal golden retriever, Buddy, who alternated between running alongside and riding in a 32kg bike trailer.
After leaving the Royal Marines in 2021 following six years of service, Hutchcraft has committed himself to causes close to his heart. With a goal of raising £500,000 for SavSim, he hopes his adventure will not only support veterans but also inspire others to push past their limits.
