Talk about balls of steel. Kerry’s Mike O’Shea recently set a world first after he flew from Mizen Head in Co Cork to Malin Head in Co Donegal using a paraglider.
Mike had to overcome strong winds and manky weather in order to complete the 590km journey, which took place between Sunday, May 18 and Wednesday, May 21.
So why did Mike decide to risk life and limb for this journey of epic proportions that saw him soaring as high as 10,000ft and at speeds of up to 90kph? Was it for the inevitable epic story he’d be able to tell the lads down at the pub afterwards?
Well, not exactly. It’s all part of the Vodafone Firsts Programme – JOE recently chatted with Lahinch-based British pro surfer Tom Lowe who was also taking part in the Vodafone Firsts. Check that out here.
Mike used Vodafone technology to stay on track of his medical condition and location, which proved handy when he had to fly through clouds and rough weather. Speaking about his Vodafone First, Mike said: “Becoming the first person to paramotor from Mizen to Malin has been a personal ambition since I first took up this sport.”
Fair play to him. After watching the video, JOE REALLY wants a go on a paraglider/paramotor…
LISTEN: You Must Be Jokin’ podcast – listen to the latest episode now!
