Belinda Kirk facts for kids

Belinda Kirk is a British explorer and a business owner who helps people go on adventures. She started a group called Explorers Connect. In 2010, she led the first all-female team to row all the way around Britain without stopping. They finished this amazing journey in 51 days!

Belinda Kirk's Adventures

Early Journeys and Discoveries

When Belinda was 18, she traveled to Tanzania to study monkeys. After that, she explored Africa by herself. This trip made her feel very confident and changed how she saw the world.

She has been on many other exciting trips. Belinda has walked across Nicaragua and looked for animals in the Taklamakan Desert in China.

Helping Others Explore

Belinda used to work making TV shows. But she decided to quit and help other people go on their own adventures. She believes that in our modern world, we are often disconnected from nature and challenges.

In 2009, Belinda started Explorers Connect. This group helps people find adventures in the UK and other countries. By 2016, it had 25,000 members, from new explorers to very experienced ones. Belinda has even worked with famous TV adventurers like Bear Grylls and Ray Mears.

Rowing Around Britain

The Seagals Team

In 2010, Belinda joined an all-female rowing team called the Seagals. Belinda was the captain of the team. Her teammates included a nurse from the Royal Navy, an IT manager, and Angela Madsen, a former US Marine.

They entered the Virgin GB Row 2010 challenge. This event dared rowers to go all the way around Britain.

Life on the Boat

The Seagals lived on their boat for the entire journey. The boat was so small that only two people could sleep in the cabin at one time. The team took turns rowing in two-hour shifts, day and night.

Belinda and her crew made history! They became the first women to row non-stop around Britain. They completed the 2,101-mile journey in 51 days. This incredible achievement earned them a spot in the Guinness World Records.

Encouraging Outdoor Fun

In July 2017, Belinda organized the first Wild Night Out. This was a national day for outdoor adventures. The goal was to encourage everyone to try new experiences outside.

Belinda is also a member of important groups like the Royal Geographical Society and the British Exploring Society.

Belinda's Family

Belinda's father is Maurice Kirk, who is nicknamed the "Flying Vet." He is a retired animal doctor and loves to fly planes.

In 2016, Maurice took part in the Vintage Air Rally. This was a five-week event where people flew old planes from Crete to Cape Town. Maurice made international news when his plane disappeared over Ethiopia. Luckily, search and rescue teams found him safe.