Adventure on the Weser for a Worthy Cause: A 100-Hour Marathon on a Paddleboard
Charitable Expedition along the Weser: Experiencing Daylight and Darkness - Altruistic Exploits along the Weser River: Day and Night Expeditions
Four gutsies are embarking on an extraordinary journey, paddling for over 100 hours on Stand Up Paddleboards (SUPs) across the Weser River, starting from Hann. Münden and ending in Bremerhaven—a staggering distance of 431 kilometers! This spirited team, dubbed the Weser4Lions, aims to power through day and night, all for the greater good—supporting the children's hospice Löwenzahn. The grand finale is set for Sunday.
They're sailing on sleep
"At night, we've got it figured out: two of us can sleep comfortably on the board, while the others keep paddling," reveals participant Axel Bischof to the German Press Agency, standing near the weir in Hameln. They survived the cold nights with the warmth of a breathtaking sunrise, Bischof shared. Safety is non-negotiable for these adventurers. At night, everyone wears life jackets and is securely fastened to the board.
Land ahoy... against their will
"There are seven locks along our path, just like the one in Hameln. We must carry our boards and take a short break when they're raising or lowering the water level," Bischof explains. These brief moments provide the perfect opportunity to grab a quick bite, as they're accompanied by two catering vehicles to ensure they're well-fed along the way.
A mission born of benevolence
"We're on this arduous journey to show our support for remarkable projects," participant Ulf Schwarz elucidates. "Our arduous paddle is dedicated to the children's hospice Löwenzahn in Syke because we firmly believe hospice work is paramount." Indeed, all hospices in Germany do stellar work, Schwarz adds.
Overcoming adversity
The trial lies in the freezing nights, battling against wind and weather, and facing the North Sea's relentless push from Bremen onwards. "Headwind is a beast, and we must be mindful that we'll soon feel the North Sea's full force for six hours, followed by another six hours of tough resistance," Schwarz warns.
It's all about the children
Every stroke they take, every challenge they conquer is driven by the hope that their efforts will make a difference. So, join them in their quest, donate generously, and together, they can create a world where children and families in need can find solace and support. You can learn more about the Weser4Lions and their noble journey by following them on social media or checking out their official website. Stand up, stand strong, and stand with them—for the children of Löwenzahn!
- Despite the challenges of harsh nights and unfavorable weather, the Weser4Lions have devised a strategy to rest, with two participants sleeping on the paddleboard while the others continue their journey, as Axel Bischof shared near the weir in Hameln.
- In their mission to support the children's hospice Löwenzahn, the Weser4Lions face seven locks along their route and have to carry their paddleboards during the transition for the water level to be adjusted. These brief moments offer them a chance to refuel, as they are accompanied by catering vehicles.
- As the Weser4Lions approach Bremen, they will encounter the North Sea's relentless push, a six-hour battle, followed by another six hours of tough resistance. Schwarz reminds us that they need our support to make a difference in the lives of children and families served by the children's hospice Löwenzahn.