A gymnastics coach with a thirst for adventure circumnavigated the island on a lay-down paddleboard to raise funds to perform a wingsuit base jump off Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania in September.

Mikey Malin, 36, who is a senior coach at the Bermuda Gymnastics Association, completed the monumental achievement on a prone paddleboard using the power of his arms to propel himself around the 43-mile course.

The two-day challenge on May 25 and 26 not only showcased his physical and mental strength but also garnered significant donations towards his African expedition.

Reflecting on the journey, he told The Royal Gazette: “The challenge around Bermuda was no small feat, involving hours of intense paddling through unpredictable seas and under scorching sun.

“Every stroke was a reminder of the greater goal.

“The struggle was immense but every wave I conquered brought me closer to realising my dream of jumping off Kilimanjaro.”

He said the feat was “marked by immense physical pain and joyous triumphs”, but said there were moments of sheer exhilaration and he was buoyed by the support of Bermudians who cheered him on from the shore.

“The sense of community and purpose provided the motivation needed to push through the pain.”

Mr Malin said he is now ready to become the first American to climb, summit and wingsuit base jump off Africa’s highest peak and the world’s largest free-standing mountain.

The funds he is raising will support his climb and the specialised equipment needed for the wingsuit base jump, a daring descent that will combine high-altitude mountaineering with the extreme sport of wingsuiting.

Mr Malin added: “The purpose of this project is to inspire others to dream big and follow their passion.”

He thanked his support crew Danica Yarnell, Mohamed Hamza, photographer and videographer, and Ross Morbey who lent him his prone paddleboard.

“Teamwork makes the dream work,” Mr Malin said.