MEET THE TEAM
Dan Searson
Founder and CEO
Challenge The Wild is run by Dan Searson. During his thirty year military career, as an Army Officer, he was deployed to the Balkans, East Africa and the Middle East; and as a Mountain Leader led expeditions to the Pyrenees, Alps, the Sierra Nevada, Dolomites, the Grand Canyon, Peru and Mount Kenya. He was awarded several British Army Commendations during his service.
Dan has extensive experience in event management and has personally run challenges for many high-profile organisations. He holds a Post Graduate Certificate in Humanitarian Response; and has been awarded certificates in Health and Safety for Managers and Medical Planning. Dan thrives on ensuring our clients achieve their goals through a rigorous approach to planning and delivery.
Joe Harrop
Event Instructor
Joe Harrop has worked in the outdoor industry for over thirty years, is an experienced rock climbing instructor, and has led groups in the technical canyons of the UK. Joe has travelled extensively, has a keen interest in the environment, and truly understands the benefits the outdoors can bring.
Paddy Cave
Event Instructor
Paddy Cave holds the Mountaineering Instructor’s Certificate, the highest UK certificate available. Paddy has completed 14 first ascents of peaks in the northern Himalayas and has taken clients out trekking and climbing all over the world. His experience and knowledge are second to none, and he is widely respected in the outdoor community.
Paul Johnson
Event Instructor
Paul Johnson served in the Merchant Navy for 39 years, spending 22 years as Chief Petty Officer. During his extensive travels all over the world, Paul has studied many techniques on helping people overcome their fears and anxieties to achieve their goals.
CHALLENGE THE WILD AMBASSADORS
Ant Middleton
Ant Middleton is a British adventurer, former UK Special Forces soldier, Royal Marines Commando, and Royal Engineer in the British Army. Ant is our Military Ambassador, bringing world class experience and support to our events.
Julia Bradbury
Julia is a well-loved television presenter, author, nature advocate, charity campaigner and cancer survivor. She is best known for turning her lifelong passion for walking into prime-time TV. Julia provides advice and support on our well-being focused events.
Luke Hepworth
Luke Hepworth is an Adventure Philanthropist. For every challenge Luke completes, he raises money and awareness for his chosen charity. He supports Challenge The Wild by providing advice and guidance on our charity focused events and corporate social responsibility.