Mike Land, a determined adventurer and bungee-jump accident survivor from Swindon, was forced to halt his world record attempt to pull a 1.5-tonne van after battling rough terrain for nine grueling hours.
Land began the challenge on 4 October at Down Ampney airfield, aiming to pull the heavy vehicle for 32 miles (51.5 km) within 24 hours — the current record for the longest distance pulling a vehicle over flat ground. Despite his impressive effort of dragging the van for 10.5 miles (13 km), the deteriorating surface and potholes proved too hazardous to continue safely.
The attempt was not in vain. Land undertook the feat to raise funds for Wiltshire Air Ambulance, the very service he credits with saving his life after a past bungee-jumping accident.
“I gave it everything I had, but the ground conditions just weren’t safe to continue,” Land said. Undeterred, he announced plans to find a new, more suitable venue and try again.
His inspiring determination and resilience continue to rally support and donations for the vital air ambulance service.
