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Chris rides waves the size of four-story buildings for fun. He won the Maverick’s Big Wave International surfing event in the biggest waves ever recorded in the history of the sport.
He holds the South African Open Ocean Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) 24-hour Distance World Record.
Chris is living proof that if you truly believe in something, set your sights on your goal – no matter how big – if you work hard at it, stay focused and never give up, you can achieve anything.
The Maverick’s Big Wave Story tells the tale of how a regular working guy from South Africa manages to get halfway around the globe to win the prestigious Maverick’s competition (TITANS OF MAVERICKS), the world’s premiere, high adrenaline, big wave surfing event, overcoming seemingly impossible obstacles along the way, against all odds.
THRIVE is a 1 hour Virtual and Interactive talk & workshop via Zoom / WebX, designed to arm employees for the challenges they are currently facing.
Thrive will give them the necessary tools to face and overcome these unprecedented and challenging times, while staying positive, productive and emerging more evolved, resilient and even stronger.
As the Mavericks Big Wave Champion and the only person on the planet to survive in a tiny box sized space, paddling alone in the Atlantic Ocean for 93 days, Chris Bertish is probably one of the best and most qualified and equipped individuals to talk and give guidance on isolation and how to get through adversity, change and challenging times.
Chris Bertish has learned some highly valuable tools and skills that helped him get through these challenging times which he will share with you through this interactive Talk / Workshop.
Videos
Chris Bertish has become a sought after global motivational keynote and TEDx guest speaker.
Whether talking at corporate events or schools, his tale of overcoming obstacles to get halfway around the globe for the Mavericks competition final always has audiences clinging to the edge of their seats.
There’s an authenticity to this material that makes people sit up and listen – because Chris walks his talk. In his popular motivation talks, Chris doesn’t just talk about what he does (believe it or not, he’s not one to brag about his achievements).
Instead, he talks about why he does it.
Like every successful sportsperson, team-leader, businessperson or entrepreneur, Chris Bertish knows that it’s the reasons why we do something that determine how we do it – or whether we do it at all.
His mantra – Dream It. See it. Believe It. Achieve It – has led Chris to redefine his approach to success – not only across multiple sports, but also as a respected Author, Filmmaker and Businessman.
In March 2017, Chris completed his most daring challenge yet by becoming the first person to single handedly cross the entire Atlantic Ocean (over 7500 km) on a Stand Up Paddleboard over 93 days. In doing so, Chris dared to achieve what most perceive to be impossible.
Now he has his speaking series on the SUP Crossing, starting in South Africa and touring abroad. Known to inspire, educate and motivate audiences by sharing his captivating experiences, Chris delivers a spellbinding and captivating narrative complimented by a powerful audiovisual presentation that will blow your audience away.
Engaging Chris to address your organisation is a worthwhile investment, as your team members will be inspired to adopt a “can do” attitude and implement the tools and skills he teaches through his powerful storytelling. Chris is also able to personalise any talk to reflect your company values, mission or a particular message.
When you book Chris Bertish, you will automatically be giving back to community projects, as percentage of the revenue generated by his global speaking engagements is donated through his various charity initiatives and his RAOK (Random Acts of Kindness) Projects.
Introduction
Chris Bertish, a renowned waterman and adventurer, made history with an awe-inspiring feat that captured the world’s attention. His incredible journey involved a solo stand-up paddleboard (SUP) crossing of the Atlantic Ocean, demonstrating unparalleled courage, determination, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of what is possible. This remarkable endeavor serves as a testament to human resilience and the indomitable spirit of exploration. In this article, we will delve into Chris’s extraordinary SUP crossing, shedding light on the challenges he faced, his motivation, and the profound impact his journey has had on the world.
The Adventurer: Chris Bertish
Chris Bertish, a native of South Africa, is a multi-talented waterman known for his prowess in various water sports, including big-wave surfing and windsurfing. His passion for the ocean, combined with an unyielding spirit of adventure, has led him to undertake audacious challenges, many of which have never been attempted before. Bertish’s pursuit of personal growth and his dedication to creating positive change have set him apart as a true modern-day explorer.
The SUP Crossing: A Pioneering Journey
Bertish’s SUP crossing of the Atlantic Ocean is a groundbreaking achievement in the world of extreme water sports. Spanning over 4,000 miles, this solo expedition required unparalleled courage and preparation. Setting off from Agadir, Morocco, in December 2016, Bertish embarked on his incredible journey with only a paddleboard and his unwavering determination.
The expedition’s challenges were multifaceted, encompassing the physical demands of paddling for hours on end, exposure to unpredictable weather conditions, and the ever-present threat of marine life. Navigating heavy storms, powerful currents, and the vastness of the open ocean was an extraordinary test of human endurance and resilience.
The Motivation: A Journey of Purpose
Bertish’s SUP crossing was not solely an adventure for personal glory; it was a mission with a profound purpose. His journey was dedicated to raising awareness and funds for various charitable causes, most notably for organizations focused on child healthcare and education in South Africa. This mission provided Bertish with a powerful source of motivation, inspiring him to push through the inevitable moments of doubt and fatigue.
Throughout his journey, Bertish’s unwavering dedication to his mission was evident. He utilized his satellite communication system to engage with schools and communities worldwide, sharing his experiences and spreading messages of hope, courage, and the importance of pursuing one’s dreams. This interactive element of his journey allowed people from diverse backgrounds to become a part of his adventure, promoting the idea that no dream is too ambitious to pursue.
The Triumph: An Inspiring Achievement
On March 9, 2017, after 93 days of grueling paddling, Chris completed his solo SUP crossing of the Atlantic Ocean when he made landfall in Antigua, in the Caribbean. This remarkable achievement not only broke records but also solidified Bertish’s status as a true pioneer and an inspiration to adventurers and dreamers worldwide.
Bertish’s journey represents the epitome of human perseverance and serves as a reminder that with unwavering determination, one can overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. His achievement is a testament to the power of setting audacious goals and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
The Impact: Inspiring Others and Philanthropic Endeavors
Chris Bertish’s SUP crossing continues to inspire individuals around the world to pursue their dreams and confront their fears. His message of courage, resilience, and the importance of making a positive impact has resonated with people of all ages and backgrounds. Bertish’s journey has demonstrated the power of adventure and exploration in fostering personal growth and contributing to the betterment of society.
In addition to the personal and inspirational impact of his journey, Bertish’s mission to support charitable causes has had a tangible effect. The funds he raised during his expedition have been directed toward projects that provide essential healthcare and educational resources to underprivileged children in South Africa. By aligning his adventure with a philanthropic cause, Bertish has demonstrated the potential of adventurous endeavors to create a lasting and positive impact.
Conclusion: A Journey of Unprecedented Courage
Bertish’s solo SUP crossing of the Atlantic Ocean stands as a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for courage, determination, and resilience. His mission to inspire and make a positive impact on the world, combined with his record-breaking achievement, has left an indelible mark on the adventure community and beyond.
Bertish’s journey serves as a shining example of the transformative power of pursuing audacious dreams, and his dedication to philanthropy showcases the potential for adventure to be a force for good in the world. His story encourages individuals to embrace their own aspirations and reminds us all that the limits of human potential are boundless. Chris’s extraordinary SUP crossing is a defining moment in the world of extreme sports and an enduring source of inspiration for those who dare to dream big.
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