Cpl Ben Brown of 1AMW, RAF Brize Norton, and Cpl Jack Broderick of TSW, MOD Stafford
successfully completed an Endurance Charity Challenge on Ascension Island during the Easter bank
holiday weekend (10–13 April), covering all 43 of the island’s renowned Letterbox hiking routes in a
continuous effort.
Over 33 hours and 19 minutes, the pair covered approximately 65 miles, with a combined elevation gain of 22,716 feet, navigating some of the island’s most remote and physically demanding terrain in a single, continuous push.
The challenge was undertaken in support of Butterfly AVM, a charity that raises awareness and provides support for those affected by arteriovenous malformations (AVMs). The cause is personal, inspired by Olive, the seven-year-old daughter of a friend and fellow servicemember, Matty, who recently suffered a brain haemorrhage caused by an AVM.
Throughout the challenge, both personnel drew motivation from Olive’s resilience and the strength shown by her and her family. This perspective proved vital in sustaining momentum during the most physically and mentally demanding stages.
The challenge was the culmination of months of detailed planning and preparation. Prior to stepping onto the routes, both personnel conducted extensive map study and route analysis to devise the most efficient plan possible, linking all 43 letterboxes while accounting for terrain, elevation, resupply points, daylight and welfare considerations. A comprehensive and scrutinised plan was developed, incorporating regular rendezvous points, welfare and water checks and clearly defined control measures. Medical support was placed on standby throughout and environmental conditions were carefully monitored, to ensure the safety of personnel.
Conditions throughout were demanding. Torrential rainstorms gave way to intense heat exceeding 30°C, with high humidity draining energy hour by hour. Ascension’s volcanic landscape, steep inclines, loose rock and uneven ground compounded fatigue, particularly during night phases when exhaustion set in and progress became as much about mental resilience as physical endurance. Although completed by two individuals, the challenge was very much a team effort. The wider Ascension Island population played a significant role throughout, providing welfare checks, encouragement and joined sections of the route. Additional support was provided by Michelle from AirTanker, who delivered social media coverage, organised fundraising through the island café, and provided event T-shirts. Sea and Land Rescue were also on standby for the duration of the challenge, providing an added layer of safety and reassurance.
The presence of colleagues and the knowledge that progress was being tracked proved a vital morale boost during the most challenging phases.
Completion of the final letterbox alongside members of the detachment marked a moment of considerable relief, pride and gratitude, not only for the achievement itself, but for the support received and the cause represented.
The fundraising total stands at £4163. It is hoped that the challenge will help inspire further support and raise vital awareness for Butterfly AVM and families affected by the condition.
