From swimming in the pitch-black darkness of the English Channel to encountering basking whales, sharks and giant waves in the Arctic Ocean, Cargilfield's former pupil (1992-1998), Leopold van Lynden’s incredible journey in 2018 alongside his friend Rob McArthur, left us in awe.During his Cargilfield Chapel Talk, Poldy took us from the planning stages to a 5,000-mile adventure from London to the Arctic, a challenge that took two years to prepare for. In support of The Scouts, Poldy and Rob completed this monumental feat using human power alone—a journey that included:

Running the equivalent of three marathons from London to Dover

Swimming 21 miles across the English Channel

Cycling over 2,000 miles from Calais to Tromso, Norway

Rowing 700 miles across the Arctic Seas to Longyearbyen, Svalbard

Through moments of physical injury, disorientation, and wild encounters with nature, Poldy showed us the power of resilience and endurance.Poldy, a massive Thank You! for coming up to visit your old prep school in Edinburgh and sharing your story with us. You’re a true gent and an inspiration to us all. Good luck with your next life adventure in April.