A session of short films exploring human endurance followed by an evening with a true one-of-a-kind adventurer. Paralysed from the chest down following a climbing accident aged 21, Karen Darke’s current Quest79 project – nine rides on seven continents to raise money for the Spinal Injuries Association – has already seen her claim a hand cycling gold medal at the 2016 Paralympic Games, shatter the women’s hand cycle land speed record in Nevada, and ride along the Ganges from its source in the Himalayas. Find out more about these and other remarkable tales from one of the world’s most inspirational (and down to earth) endurance athletes.

Film running order

The Flip, 3’, Reed Rickert, US. A French skydiver faces his fears in order to explore a new expression of movement while BASE jumping in Mexico

Par for the course, 3.40’, Dir. Kody Kohlman. A woman whom some might feel doesn’t belong in the outdoor world challenges herself on the punishing Broken Arrow Sky Race, California

Boys from the back of beyond, 12.51’, Jonny Madderson and Jono Stevens. The story of how wildcard Irish brothers Gary and Paul O’Donovan secured Ireland’s first ever rowing medal at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio

Moving on, 6.05’, Dir. Joe O’ Connor. Diagnosed with MS a decade ago, Duncan Booth uses an e-bike to keep moving and continue living a life of adventure

The High Road, 17’, Dir. Reel Rock 14. While the world’s best boulderers push standards close to the ground, emerging star athlete Nina Williams tests her nerve well beyond the no-fall zone

Hear more from Karen Darke, together with fellow GB Paralympian Hannah Dines, in the short film below.

Session kindly sponsored by FINDRA

Special offer: FINDRA is offering festival ticket holders 10% off all purchases at its Innerleithen store over the festival w/end.