Veterans test their resilience by paddling length of Ottawa River in 5-week odyssey

Sean Groves, a retired combat engineer with over three decades of military experience, has embarked on an extraordinary journey with his teenage son, Will. The father-son duo, along with a small expedition of veterans, set out to paddle almost the entire length of the Ottawa River, starting from Lac des Outaouais in northern Quebec.

The expedition, spanning over 1,000 kilometers through untouched wilderness, is not just a physical challenge but also a fundraiser for Wounded Warriors Canada. Sean Groves expressed his gratitude for his son’s willingness to join the expedition, emphasizing the opportunity to give back to the veterans community and share this experience with Will.

Will, at 18 years old, acknowledged the difficulty of the journey ahead, both physically and mentally. He sees this expedition as a way to build his mental resilience and perspective for future challenges in life. Despite knowing that the journey will be grueling, Will is determined to push himself beyond his limits with the support of his father and fellow expedition members.

Mark Gasparotto, the mastermind behind the expedition and a former combat engineer, highlighted the importance of resilience in challenging times. He believes that resilience is a skill that can be learned and practiced through facing tough situations. The expedition aims to spread this message of resilience and inspire others to embrace difficulties as opportunities for growth.

As the team navigates through the wilderness, they remain aware of the risks posed by the ongoing wildfire season in Canada. While they are prepared to adapt to any unforeseen challenges, their determination to complete the expedition remains unwavering.

The expedition, divided into five legs with additional volunteers joining for shorter stretches, is not just a physical feat but a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit. Sean Groves, Will, and their companions set out on this journey not only to conquer the Ottawa River but also to conquer their own inner battles, emerging stronger and more resilient on the other side.