KENYA 400: Watamu or Bust
Organised by PTSD ResolutionOld School Friends Take on Kenya: Cycling to Support Veterans' Mental Health
Story
This August, six lifelong friends from King's School Bruton (1969–1974) — Tony, Alistair, Simon, Adam, Paul, and Charles — will cycle 420 km across Kenya to raise vital funds for PTSD Resolution, a charity that helps veterans and their families overcome the invisible wounds of war.
The Challenge
From August 25–29, these Old Brutonians — all turning 70 this year — will ride from Ziwani, near the Tanzanian border, to Watamu on Kenya’s coast. Their route will span the breathtaking Tsavo game reserves, covering up to 100 km a day, with support vehicles on hand to navigate wildlife and rough terrain. Alistair Waite says:
Now is the time to do something like this. In five years, we might not be able to.
Why This Matters
Beyond the physical challenge, this ride celebrates 50 years of friendship — bonds forged on school sports fields that remain as strong as ever. But above all, the team is driven to support veterans living with PTSD, an often unseen but devastating consequence of service.
Charles Highett, one of the riders and CEO of PTSD Resolution, explains:
PTSD is an ordinary reaction to extraordinary events. Our charity helps veterans and their families reclaim their lives.
About PTSD Resolution: Fast, Free, Effective Support
Since 2009, PTSD Resolution has delivered over 4,500 therapy sessions a year to veterans, reservists, and family members.
70%+ of clients report a successful significant improvement of symptoms. Therapy is offered to veterans in prison, those battling addiction, and family members facing secondary trauma.
PTSD Resolution is accredited by the Royal College of Psychiatrists and a proud member of Cobseo, the Confederation of Service Charities.
What makes the charity’s approach unique:
✅ Free for all ex service personnel, veterans, reservists, and families
✅ No GP referral or diagnosis needed
✅ Local therapists across the UK but also delivered remotely & overseas
✅ Fast access — first session within days
✅ Highly effective — typically resolved in 7 sessions
✅ Completely confidential
A Global Impact
Beyond the UK, PTSD Resolution has also delivered resilience training to Ukrainian Defence Forces, helping extend their life-changing methods internationally.
How You Can Help
The team aims to raise £3,500–£4,000 for this vital cause. They will document their journey daily with photos and updates on their JustGiving page.
Help them make a difference: