Pushing Through Pain, Fear and Self-Doubt – OTC Team Reflect on Emotional Hike Bike Paddle Challenge!
- Team OTC
- Jul 17
- 3 min read
For the OTC team, the Hike Bike Paddle challenge was about far more than covering the miles.
It was about pushing through pain, overcoming self-doubt, supporting one another and raising money for the Youth Adventure Trust. From a gruelling 20km hike and run starting at 5am, to a demanding 40km bike ride in blistering heat before finishing on the water with paddleboards, it was a day that tested every member of the team.
Yet, looking back, it is the friendships, encouragement and shared determination that stand out most.
By Emma Maguire.
Kevin Greenslade came into the challenge carrying more than just his kit. Recovering from a broken foot and struggling with a bad back, he admitted he almost didn’t take part.
“Two days before HBP I was seriously thinking I was going to have to pull out. Six weeks after breaking my foot and suffering from a bad back. Was it the most sensible decision to carry on?… Hell yeah, it wasn’t easy but, what an amazing day. The weather made the challenge even harder but added to buzz in the end. Having all that on the doorstep opens your eyes to what you sometimes take for granted. The trip took me on routes I have never been on and views I have never seen. What a day…. looking forward to next year.”
For Scott Stallman, the challenge was made memorable not only by the demanding conditions but by the strength of the team around him.
“What a day the HBP turned out to be! Blistering heat, not a breath of wind, and a route that seemed determined to make us question our life choices.
“With very little training going into the event, I knew it was going to be tough, but the team didn’t stop once. We kept each other going and had plenty of laughs along the way.
“A special mention has to go to Emma, who not only led us around Portland on the hike but also absolutely smashed the bike ride despite not riding very often. An incredible effort Emma, you definitely kept us all motivated to keep going!”
Perhaps the most emotional reflection came from Emma Maguire, who described completing the event as something she never believed she could achieve.
The bike ride, in particular, became a moment she will never forget.
“I have achieved something I never thought I would ever do!! An endurance charity challenge all in aid of The Youth Adventure Trust!!! What a day! One I’ll never forget!
“Started at 5am with a 20k hike/run!! Then the 40k bike ride… this was the bit that was emotional! If it wasn’t for Kevin Greenslade, Scott Stallman, Joe Adams and Tris Best I would have never been able to complete that bike ride!
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your patience, compassion, encouragement and support guys! The dream team!
“Then we ended with the paddle boarding! Feeling so proud! It’s amazing what you can achieve when you push yourself out of your comfort zone!!! Wow!
“Huge well done to the whole team. Same again next year…?”
Their stories highlight what the Hike Bike Paddle challenge is truly about. It is not simply a test of endurance, but a reminder that extraordinary things become possible when people refuse to let each other give up.
Every aching leg, every difficult climb and every moment of doubt was met with words of encouragement from teammates who were facing the very same challenge.
Together, they completed an incredible day while raising funds for the Youth Adventure Trust, a charity that helps vulnerable young people build confidence, resilience and self-belief through adventure.
Anyone wishing to support the team’s fundraising can donate here:
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