Bath Rugby legend Iestyn Lewis has taken charity fundraising to new heights after skydiving in freezing Himalayan conditions close to Mount Everest, all whilst clutching a rugby ball.
The former centre, who played for the Blue, Black and White between 1990-95, took on the awe-inspiring challenge to raise £29,031.69 – the height of Mount Everest in feet – on behalf of Bath Rugby Foundation which supports disadvantaged children in Somerset.
Launching himself out of a helicopter from a staggering 24,000 feet, just below Everest, the fundraiser managed to land at the Himalayan dreamlands of Synagboche (12,402 ft) in a thrilling aerial feat and now holds the title for the fastest Bath Rugby ball to travel in the pursuit of changing lives.
Iestyn, who already had one skydive under his belt and had vowed to never do another, was persuaded to change his mind by close friend and former member of the SAS, Lee Winter, who, with the help of his company, Papabellum Tactical Training, created a special harness enabling Iestyn to hold onto the rugby ball whilst tumbling through the air at 180mph in minus 30 degrees.
Talking about his experience after raising an astounding £24,674 so far, he said: “Without a doubt, it was the most frightening but exhilarating moment of my life. Fear took over as I was 24,000 feet up, but I knew there was only one way down.
“Tumbling through the skies at up to 180mph and at a temperature of minus 30 degrees, unsurprisingly made me lose my bearings and I couldn't hear a thing, but once I'd settled into the experience, I was able to witness the most amazing views and enjoy the thrill that not many people can say they've had.
“The Bath Rugby Foundation is a charity I have supported for years. It felt like my last chance to do something as extreme as this and I knew that if I was going to do it then I wanted to do it for the charitable cause which is so close to my heart.”
When asked whether he could be persuaded to take on another challenge of such extremities, Iestyn replied, “no chance, going forward, the only thing I'll be doing at 24,000 feet is enjoying a nice, cold gin and tonic!”
Each year, the Bath Rugby Foundation works with around 4,000 children and young people using the power of sport and education to help raise self-esteem and increase confidence through community outreach initiatives.
Helena Coury, Head of Fundraising from the Bath Rugby Foundation, said: “We couldn't believe it when Iestyn told us what he was planning, whilst at the same time being truly honoured that he was willing to go to such extreme lengths to raise money for our charity.
“We're delighted to have Iestyn back in one piece and want to thank him for his outstanding fundraising efforts for our cause. The money raised will go such a long way to helping the most vulnerable in our city and surrounding areas.”
Iestyn Lewis' GoFundMe page remains open as he aims to reach his £29,031.69 target. Those wanting to support the challenge and donate to the worthy cause can do so by visiting this link.
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