November has been a month of extremes for VALLON Trailblazer, Mitch Hutchcraft. From freezing temperatures, to breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable encounters as the journey continues through Turkey, and now into Iraq.
In Cappadocia, nature and history converge in a stunning display: the geopark’s otherworldly beauty brought a sense of peace and awe that only such places can inspire. It was a moment of tranquility for Mitch and his support team before diving back into the rugged challenges of the road.
The Turkish mountains provided both stunning views and harsh conditions, with temperatures dropping as low as -8°C. Climbing over 2,000 meters through icy terrain tested both body and mind, but the rewards - crisp mountain air, sweeping vistas, and a sense of achievement - made it all worth it. Even punctured tires and wrong turns became part of the story, bringing laughter and a new meaning to resilience for the journey as they make their way east towards Everest.
As the mountains gave way to the flatlands near the Turkey-Syria border, new challenges arose. A hair-raising dog chase left Mitch cycling at full speed, dodging both teeth and traffic - and narrowly escaping disaster. For Mitch, this journey demands constant vigilance, whilst simultaneously being a once in a lifetime adventure.
Finally, the time came to bid farewell to Turkey. The country’s rugged landscapes, warm hospitality, and daunting climbs have left an indelible mark on Mitch’s LIMITLESS adventure. With 4,893 kilometers cycled — 46.6% of the distance ticked off - it’s time to embrace the unknown as Iraq beckons with new stories waiting to be written.
November has been a chapter of growth, perseverance, and awe. Stay tuned as the journey continues through new terrain, challenges, and discoveries!
Learn more about Mitch's 12,000km triathlon to Everest here.
