Hi. My name is Steve Thiele. I am totally blind - I lost my sight when I was 8 years old, by falling head-first out of a tree (not recommended!).

 

On the weekend of 9th/10th April 2011, I will be raising money for a charity called Ghana Outlook, by attempting to break an existing Guinness World Record, namely: "Farthest distance water-skied blindfolded in one hour".  The current world record for this is 20 miles.

 

It seems a bit pointless me wearing a blindfold since I am registered as totally blind, but Guinness World Records say I must wear a blindfold, so that's what I'll be doing!

 

I'll be attempting this crazy challenge in the chilly waters off the isle of Anglesey. 

 

UPDATE:

I did it! On 9th April I skied for 23.85 miles in one hour ,without falling off. This means I smashed the world record by 3.85 miles. Thanks for your support!

 

What is Ghana Outlook, I hear you say?

 

The Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service are organising Ghana Project 2011, which uses this charity. If you sponsor me for this project your money will go towards building a school in Ghana. Your funds will help buy the building materials and educational materials to equip this school. Since the local villagers will do the majority of the work required to build the school, this project will leave a long lasting self sustainable asset enabling young African children to develop a "self help" approach to reducing poverty. Approximately two weeks before the school completion date the Cheshire Fire Cadets fly out to Ghana and work alongside the villagers to complete the building and celebrate with them when the school is formally opened. The project is a true cultural partnership. 

 

Thanks very much for your sponsorship.