James Ketchell

James Ketchell is a record-breaking adventurer, aviator, and motivational speaker with an extraordinary journey of resilience and achievement. In 2014, he became the first person to complete what was called ‘The Ultimate Triathlon’ – rowing solo across the Atlantic, summiting Everest, and cycling 18,000 miles around the world. But James didn’t stop there. In 2019, he broke new ground, entering the Guinness World Records as the first person to circumnavigate the globe in an open-cockpit gyrocopter, all while inspiring young people worldwide to reach beyond their own limits.

James’ journey started in 2008 when he was recovering from a serious motorcycle accident that left him with broken legs and a severely damaged ankle. Doctors predicted he’d never regain full mobility, but he defied the odds and set out on adventures that would define his life. In 2022, he completed an unsupported trek across Greenland, continuing to inspire schools across the UK by sharing his journey and motivating the next generation.

Not every adventure has been smooth sailing. He’s survived two mid-ocean rescues, including a dramatic climb up a 100,000-tonne oil tanker during a storm in the Indian Ocean. From a young man struggling with low confidence, James has become an ambassador for scouting and a sought-after speaker, inspiring audiences worldwide with powerful lessons on resilience, ambition, and overcoming adversity.

In 2024, James set off on his latest endeavour – a solo circumnavigation of the world by sea. Although a technical issue forced him to return after just two days, he’s now preparing to set sail again in July 2025. If successful, he will be the first person to have circumnavigated the earth by air, sea, and land – a truly historic achievement in exploration.