A Visual Journey through Beyond Limits 5
Meet the BL5 team; both the trekking team and the Mongolian support team. They covered a total of 87.8km across 6 days, all while dragging a tyre!
This article is different from our usual.
In this article, I invite you to join me on a unique journey – one that unravels the saga of Beyond Limits 5 (BL5) through the captivating language of visuals. Here, words take a backseat as we allow the mesmerizing photographs taken by our photographer, Ryan, to paint a vivid tapestry of this expedition
The essence of our experience is woven into the intricate interactions within the BL5 team, the rugged challenges posed by the environment, the heartwarming encounters with both extraordinary Mongolian locals and animals, and the thrilling twists and turns that constantly kept us on our toes. Initially, my understanding of this journey was based on absorbing accounts from the participants themselves. However, it wasn't until I delved into the treasure trove of our photographer’s shots that I truly comprehended the depth of what transpired.
(Read about the experiences of three BL5 members via individual interviews with Wei Ling, Jimmy and Roderick.)
For this article, I meticulously curated and sequenced a collection of poignant moments that captures the moments of BL5. The intention is to offer you not just a peek, but an immersive plunge into the very soul of this expedition.
So, are you ready to be transported to a world beyond limits? If yes, then buckle up, hold on tight, and get ready for a look into this meaningful expedition across the Gobi desert!
Boarding the vans, Mongolian drivers guide us to our trek's start and beyond, these vehicles becoming our compass through the expedition's unfolding chapters.
In this trek, one of our BL5 members, Roderick has a disability that leaves him permanently in a wheelchair. Here are ‘special’ wheels he got just for the Gobi desert terrain!
After loading up all their things into the vans, the team’s all ready to go!
The weather and the landscape were gorgeous that day.
Meet our stalwart companions, the UAZ 4x4 Russian mini vans - the silent bearers of our expedition's heart and soul, carrying sustenance, gear, and our spirits across uncharted realms.
The grasslands of Gobi desert were filled with grazing horses.
A mandatory jump shot in the middle of the highway, against a beautiful natural backdrop.
Roderick against the huge expanse of the sky.
It’s time for our first lunch in Mongolia! We stopped by a small town to have lunch.
The team’s first meal, while seated under raw horse flesh.
Unwinding with good company and great conversation - the perfect recipe for a memorable lunch.
Back in motion, embracing the open road ahead - a 300km car ride down South to the starting point (Zorgol Khairkhan Mountain)!
Our skilled drivers lending a helping hand as we load and unload the tires that will soon become our companions on this unique journey.
At last, the team arrived at their starting point (Zorgol Khairkhan Mountain), and were greeted by a glimpse of the captivating natural world that enveloped them.
Infusing our journey with a personal touch, we adorned our dragging tire companions, fostering a sense of ownership that would accompany us through the days ahead.
Behold the masterpieces crafted by our BL5 team, a testament to creativity and collaboration that will accompany us on our remarkable journey ahead! Each tyre’s design has a special and unique story that explains why they were crafted or designed that way.
Our team members are evidently loving their creations!
And looks like our Mongolian support team are loving these newly designed tyres too! They are helping to puncture a hole in each tyre so we can fit a bolt and nut inside, for us to be able to drag them behind us during the trek.
With anticipation in the air, the team got ready by embarking on a practice trek.
In this practice trek, our team members got a feel of how its like to trek with their tyres and made changes to their set-up if necessary.
Preparation is always an important step to take, before embarking on a huge challenge. The quality of preparation is directly proportionate to how far you will go beyond your limits.
The rain was relentlessly pouring down, but our team continued to walk with unwavering resolve.
Amidst the trek, our team's unwavering camaraderie shone through as we cheered each other on, the uplifting spirit reaching new heights.
Persistently shrouded in dark clouds, our team faced a formidable weather challenge throughout the journey.
Donning ponchos, we geared up to brave the elements.
Looks like our team members were still in high spirits despite the rain!
The skies cleared up in time for the team to take a break; hooray!
A delicious glimpse of our lunch spread.
It was a delicious reward to refuel spirits on this demanding journey.
Our team got to enjoy such a cozy and inviting arrangement! Our Mongolian crew were always ensuring every team member was well fed. They’re such essential members of our expedition.
The weather came back, dark and gloomy.
The rain left us drenched, forming puddles around us as we pressed on.
This trek proved to be a true test of resilience and unwavering perseverance.
Night fell, and it’s time to rest for the next day.
The second day started with our ladies all pretty in pink (and red)!
Pressing onward with unyielding determination, the BL5 journey continues!
Along the way, some injuries were endured.
Fortunately, Jimmy, an A&E doctor among us, ensured we were well-prepared to handle any injuries that arose.
Venturing through a sea of grass, nestled beside majestic mountains, our path continued on.
And our tyres kept going on with us too.
Pose for the camera, team!
The team pausing for a well-deserved break, recharging our energy and spirits for the challenges ahead.
Lunchtime, a cherished moment for the team, providing a satisfying respite during our demanding journey.
And the same goes for our hardworking drivers too.
In the realm of our trek, familiar sights unfurl – the wild horses, akin to the commonplace mynahs of Singapore. Amidst Mongolia's vast expanse, these majestic equines constantly grace our journey.
Occasionally, they pause and gaze at us, as if sharing a moment of curiosity and connection.
As night descends, we find ourselves back in Mongolian gers, embracing the tradition and authenticity of these resting spaces.
These nights were enriched with shared laughter, deep connections, and meaningful conversations, creating many unforgettable moments for the BL5 team.
The team had the privilege to observe the process of fresh cow's milk being prepared.
Cups all lined up, ready to be used to serve the freshly prepared cow’s milk.
Our team members had the privilege of engaging with the nomads of Mongolia, forging bonds and embracing a new culture, creating meaningful connections along our journey.
Every time the sun rises, the trek begins again.
Behold the early riser, ready to greet the day with enthusiasm!
The team gearing up for another day of trekking!
Launching into the trek with a spirited cheer, we set forth on our journey once more, united and determined.
This scene has become a familiar sight, greeting us every morning as we embark on our daily journey.
True constants of our journey, we greet Roderick's trusty tires each morning - a symbol of resilience that propelled us through each new day of trekking.
Over time, the horses have transformed into cherished friends of our team, sharing in our journey and adding a special camaraderie to our adventure.
And most important of all, these tyres too!
Another tyre that served the team well, by ferrying Roderick through all kinds of terrain.
A captivating glimpse of the mesmerizing rock formations that graced our path.
We are going in.
These BL5 members are fearless!
Behold her courage as she ventures into the depths of the caves!
Here's Jimmy, fearlessly exploring the caves alongside her.
Say ‘CHEESE’, you courageous adventurers!
Emerging from the caves, the intrepid adventurers captured moments to share with Roderick, whose disability was the only factor preventing him from joining them inside.
Let's continue our journey, onward and forward!
The team marching onward, undeterred by any challenges that come our way.
Our Mongolian support team setting up for lunch!
Amidst the vast Mongolian landscapes, our dedicated Mongolian crew were important pillars of sustenance for the team, always making sure that everyone was well fed to have the energy to continue trekking till the end.
Savoring lunch amidst the vast expanse of the Gobi Desert, an indescribable experience that words cannot capture.
And after lunch, we know the drill by now; it’s time to go again.
At the midway point, the team encountered a stream. One by one, they embarked on the crossing, navigating the waters with determination and teamwork.
Let’s go!
Ready… and jump!
Every individual with disability is an embodiment of resilience, because they show us that even without the conventional means, we can still navigate life's terrain with unwavering courage.
Roderick ingeniously seeking refuge behind the van, on a chair he brought along just for him to do his business. This was how Roderick usually did his business throughout the expedition; finding a sheltered spot to answer nature’s call whenever he needed to.
And here’s the invaluable Mongolian crew, always ready with a helping hand to support and guide us on our journey.
Behold these adorable Mongolian children, a heartwarming glimpse into the local charm and warmth that touched our journey.
Now, let's all say 'CHEESE'! These children have truly captured the hearts of our team.
At times, when the vehicle requires repair, our dedicated Mongolian support team is always on standby, ready to lend their expertise.
Look at them go at it! Our intrepid drivers are never afraid to get their hands dirty and go the extra mile – dirt holds no sway when they navigate expeditions with us.
Look at how dirty his clothes were! Much gratitude for you being a dependable source of repair support that kept our journey on track!
In the heart of challenges, our Mongolian drivers exemplify true dedication, proving that even in the dirtiest of circumstances, their devotion to the journey remains unwavering.
Amidst our trek, we attended a mini Naadam festival at a village near where we were trekking, where horse-racing was part of the event. As the thundering hooves of the horse race echoed, the team was left in awe by the sight of young champions, mere 6-7 years old, living out a legacy of their heritage.
Watch them in action! Overflowing with confidence and a touch of sass, they exhibit a spirit that knows no bounds.
The team also got to see an exhilarating display of Mongolian wrestling. The sight of wrestlers adorned in traditional two-piece costumes consisting of a tight shoulder vest (zodog) and shorts (shuudag), added a vibrant layer of authenticity to this captivating spectacle.
One of the mornings before they began trekking again, one of our BL5 members experienced an allergic reaction. Jimmy, our A&E doctor, swiftly came to the rescue, showcasing the invaluable role of our team's diverse skills.
He administered a crucial intravenous injection, swiftly addressing the situation and ensuring our teammate's well-being.
In the end, everything turned out well, and a rainbow graced the sky, as if joining in the celebration with our team.
Dinner that night was especially scrumptious. Look, barbecued lamb!
A close-up glimpse captures the delectable essence of a Mongolian hot stone bbq specially prepared by our Mongolian team. A well-earned treat after battling the capricious weather and the weight of the tires!
Conversations flowed and ebbed, weaving a tapestry of shared stories and connections as the evening unfolded.
Vivien, a spirited force despite her age of 60++, radiated boundless enthusiasm. Her unwavering energy throughout the trek was an inspiration, and here’s a fun fact: she conquered Everest Base Camp just last year! A living testament to her indomitable spirit and a reminder that age is merely a number on her extraordinary journey.
Embracing our inner shyness and playfulness, we let loose with giggles and jiggles, creating moments of lighthearted joy.
As we transition into the final day of our journey, a mix of emotions fills the air, marking the culmination of our incredible adventure.
Our final preparatory meeting, a moment of focused anticipation as we gear up for the last leg of our journey.
Getting everything ready.
And let’s go; the final lap!
The last stretch awaits us.
And the team keeps pushing on!
And at last, with eager anticipation and after enduring tremendous effort, they achieved their goal!
They made it! Trekking a total of 87.8km across 6 days, all while dragging a tyre!
Here’s the BL5 trekking team who took on the challenge of Beyond Limits 5!
From L to R: Jaslyn, Wei Ling, Vivien, Rodrick, Jimmy, Man Zhi, Scott
And that wraps up the visual journey through BL5.
If you find yourself interested in joining our next Beyond Limits expedition, you’re in luck! Because we have another one coming right for you at the end of 2023; this time, you’re in for a frozen edition.
Article written by: Valerie
Valerie, a freelance writer with a quirky infatuation with steamed buns and slightly bizarre food combinations.
(“Try soft-boiled eggs and hot milo!”)
She wishes to keep writing stories that bypass typical food reviews and appreciation of scenery, stories that inspire readers to pursue curious conversations about the unique cultures and lifestyles of every country.
