From Dover to Everest: One Man’s Epic Journey for Mental Health and Wildlife Conservation
Mitch Hutchcraft is about to embark on a journey that most people can only imagine, a grueling 12,000km expedition that will take him from the shores of Dover to the towering summit of Mount Everest. What makes this feat even more extraordinary isn’t just the physical endurance it demands, but the deep personal mission driving him forward—advocating for mental health and wildlife conservation. Through his journey, Mitch is fundraising for causes that are close to his heart, while pushing the boundaries of human endurance.
His adventure is nothing short of epic. Starting with a swim across the English Channel, Mitch will then cycle across continents, run through the heart of rural India and Nepal, trek the Himalayan foothills, and ultimately face the ultimate test of strength—climbing Mount Everest.
The journey is divided into several stages, each with its own set of challenges:
- Stage 1: Channel Swim – 35km from Dover to Calais, expected to take around 12-16 hours depending on weather conditions.
- Stage 2: Cycling Across Continents – A 9,000-10,000km cycle from Calais to Digha, India, anticipated to take around 4 months.
- Stage 3: Running from Digha to Kathmandu – A 900km run or speed march through India and Nepal, estimated to last 4-5 weeks.
- Stage 4: Trekking to Everest Base Camp – A 350km trek from Kathmandu, covering 3 weeks.
- Stage 5: Climbing Mount Everest – The final and most daunting leg, expected to span 7 weeks.
The physical challenge is just as important as the mental one. Mitch has spent years fortifying his mind and body to prepare for such an excursion, saying “it’s been a step-by-step process. Dedication, belief, and compartmentalization is the key.” Every part of the journey requires a different set of skills and fitness, from swimming the Channel to cycling vast distances, running in extreme heat, and braving the cold of the Himalayas. But Mitch is ready.
Among the aspects of the expedition, he’s most excited about the opportunity to experience "the culture and landscapes in Iran, and the run through rural India and Nepal." However, the journey isn’t without its worries. The unpredictability of the Channel swim and the climb to Everest’s summit weigh heavily on Mitch’s mind. “Those are the two parts of the journey where things are out of my control. Both are at the mercy of Mother Nature,” he admits.
While the physical challenge of the journey is monumental, it’s Mitch’s passion for mental health advocacy and wildlife conservation that gives him purpose. Having witnessed the effects of PTSD firsthand and losing a close family member to suicide, he’s determined to raise awareness and funds for mental health.
Mitch’s love for wildlife is just as deeply ingrained. Before joining the military, he worked in zoos, stables, and kennels, earning an advanced diploma in Zoology and Animal Care. “I’ve been a conservationist and animal lover my whole life,” he says, explaining how these causes are intertwined in his journey.
Accompanying Mitch on this adventure is a dedicated support crew—Stan, Molly, and Marius—who will not only be providing logistical assistance but will also be documenting the journey. Traveling in a campervan, they’ll be capturing footage at wildlife sanctuaries along the route, showing the world not only Mitch’s physical endurance but the wildlife conservation efforts he’s passionate about.
Throughout the expedition, Mitch will rely on his trusty VALLON sunglasses. “Loving my VALLONs and using them every day!” Mitch says. “The Watchtowers feel amazing while cycling, and the Howlin’ and Waylons look great and never fall off during a hike or run.”
As the countdown begins to this extraordinary adventure, Mitch’s story stands as a reminder of what can be achieved with determination, passion, and purpose. Whether you’re drawn to his mission for mental health or the thrill of the physical challenge, his journey promises to inspire and engage.
You can follow Mitch’s progress and be a part of this incredible expedition through his social media channels:
- Instagram: @_mitchhutch
- Website: www.12000kmtoeverest.com
- YouTube: @mitch_hutch
Let's join Mitch on his epic journey, supporting his mission to create change for mental health and wildlife conservation—one step closer to Everest.
