This year, we will serve eight communities: São Miguel do Gostoso, Enxu Queimado, Praia do Marco, São Bento, Galo, Galinhos, Barreiras, and Diogo Lopes. We provide healthcare across communities varying in population density, ensuring access to quality medical care – from general and pediatric medicine to specialized fields – tailored to each locality’s needs. In addition to medical specialties, all team members contribute as general physicians, attending to adults and children, while supporting logistical and sustainable initiatives in the community. Our aim extends beyond sport to aiding the communities we traverse. Comprising medical professionals and volunteers, our mission is to provide basic healthcare to isolated communities often lacking access to medical services. In essence, we merge our passion for sport, adventure and travel with altruism.
Team ‘Water’, comprising skilled kiters, will undertake the sea route, while team ‘Land’ (non-kiters and technical support) will follow a parallel route on land and sometimes boat to meet for medical assistance the day following each sailing leg. Led by Luis Octavio, my angel on the water, and supported by experienced riders and volunteers, we are reminded that downwinders can be dangerous, and many accidents can occur. The team on the water undertaking the downwinder will need to have excellent physical fitness and be intermediate to advanced kiters, and will cover approximately 200km of coastline. The environment is challenging: extended periods at sea, intense sun and heat during community service days along the coast. We seek qualified medical and non-medical professionals willing to contribute to our cause. The expedition is open to physicians (proficiency in Portuguese, Spanish, or English required), as well as non-medical volunteers interested in organizational roles, triage, pharmacy, helping beginners in the water and general services. The most crucial requirement is a desire to work together, make a difference, and create a lasting impact.
