Adventurous Amy Williams is preparing for a five-week exploration of the Yukon River after being chosen as just one of 12 for the trip which means going without electricity, running water or phone signal.
Amy, a Year 13 pupil at The Long Eaton School, originally heard about the opportunity for the wilderness adventure when the British Exploration Society (BES) gave a presentation to her sixth form.
At 17 Amy is one of the youngest students chosen for the Canadian adventure and she has been busy raising the £3,500 cost of the trip which promises to be as gruelling as it enjoyable.
Photo shows: Year 13 Long Eaton School Pupil, Amy Williams, competing in gymnastics.
She said: “The five weeks will be spent without electricity, signal or even running water so it will be very different from anything I have ever experienced, and I am keen to open my eyes to the wider world while trekking and exploring the beautiful environment.
“Outdoor education is overlooked, it has so many physical and mental benefits. But I also hope I will learn about myself but in the knowledge that I’ve got the support from the British Exploring Society should anything go wrong.”
Amy has been challenging her mind and body since she was very young – something she hopes will help prepare her for the physically demanding trip in July.
As a teenager she competed nationally and locally in trampolining, training for nine to 12 hours a week and representing The Long Eaton School in national finals. She came third in the National Individual Finals in 2020, just before Covid-19 caused the national lockdown.
Today, Amy coaches young gymnasts at Erewash Valley Gymnastics Club and her dedication to the sport was recognised by the its national governing body, British Gymnastics, who chose her as one of three people recognised nationally for volunteering.
Photo shows: Year 13 Long Eaton School Pupil, Amy Williams
“My coach had put me forward and not told me, so I was so surprised to get an email from British Gymastics saying I’d made it through to the final three,” said Amy.
“I think she had told them how I’d coached sessions via Zoom during lockdown to try to keep students progressing at home.”
Amy had also given up her own time to help redecorate and refurbish the club after it was damaged in a severe storm.
With her fundraising completed, Amy is now preparing for a five-day training week in June to learn about the wildlife she may encounter and the physical demands she will need to endure.
“I know it’s going to be tough; they’ve said you have to be physically fit to do it, but I’m also just really excited to take on the challenge,” said Amy.
Marcus Caton, head of sixth form at The Long Eaton School said: “Since hearing about the British Exploration Society opportunity during our sixth form talk, Amy has shown the ambition, dedication and hard work which make her the perfect candidate for this opportunity.
“These are attributes she also applies to her sport and study and we wish her every success in both her upcoming competitions and the trip this summer.”
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