As January rolls on, we are spending time reflecting on the past year. While we've been busy analysing data and planning for the future, we've also been reminiscing about the transformative year we've had. It's been a rollercoaster ride, with its fair share of ups and downs, but it's important to remember the amazing people we've met along the way. 2023 has been documented in the FINDRA Journal, which allows us to revisit some of our favourite moments and friendships formed. We thought we would share some of our highlights with you.
We are greatly appreciative when our friends share their inspirations, adventures, and love for the outdoors with us. We've been fortunate enough to have some exceptional individuals share their thoughts, and we have loved each and every one of them.
Kate Mackay
One such account that stands out is Kate Mackay's beautiful retelling of her ascent on Everest. Despite not being an avid mountaineer, Kate was inspired by Jennifer Jordan's book Savage Summit to plan her trip.
“The book lit the touch paper, firing my imagination and desire to see and experience what the mountaineers had," Kate said.
We absolutely love her honest and personal account of her experience, and recommend giving it another read.
https://findraclothing.com/blogs/journal/friend-of-findra-kate-mackays-ascent-on-everest
Jo Tinsley
In the month of June, we had the pleasure of featuring a piece by Jo Tinsley, the author of Slow Traveller. Her writing was both eloquent and inspiring, as she spoke about the simple joy of taking things one step at a time. To complement her words, we included some breath-taking photography of the various landscapes she's explored. It made for the perfect Sunday read – peaceful, beautiful, and motivational.
“Walking is the most successful way of moving slowly through a landscape. The simplicity of putting one foot in front of the other gives us a sense of freedom like no other form of movement, allowing us space to connect – with ourselves, with people from all walks of life, and with the landscapes we’re moving through.”
Ginny Lunn
Ginny Lunn, a long-time supporter and friend of FINDRA, shares her inspiring journey from being a Chief Executive Officer of a charity to becoming the owner of WalkingWomen – a travel company that offers walking holidays for women worldwide. Her adventurous spirit is rooted in her belief that "if I don't do it now, when will I?" Her attitude is infectious and made us all want to plan our next trip or challenge.
https://findraclothing.com/blogs/journal/friend-of-findra-ginny-lunn
We had the pleasure of publishing so many captivating stories from our friends that it was a challenge to select just a few. Head to our blog and relive some of the incredible stories from our friends in 2023.
Rachael Haylett, Pollyana Caldas Xavier Leaver, Alison Johns, Diane, Rachel Harvey, Leanne Wrightson, Rosemary & Malcolm, Emily Chappell, Bex Hunt, Val Brunton, Charlotte Muller Stuart and Andrea Champredonde.
We also shared our own news and thoughts on the Journal pages. In May, we announced that we would be returning our emphasis back to our original core mission – designing outdoor activewear for women. This meant the end of the men’s line. Although we expected divided opinions, we are confident that it was the right decision for FINDRA as the year has progressed.
https://findraclothing.com/blogs/journal/important-findra-announcement
Attending the Kendal Mountain Film Festival reinforced this decision, particularly through the screening of "Women on the Move" by Kat Jungnickel and The Adventure Syndicate. The film sparked a dynamic conversation about improving outdoor activity provisions for women that inspired us to continue our mission of revolutionizing activewear for women.
Finally, we would like to take a moment to reminisce on one of the most memorable experiences of the year. In October, the Borders hosted the UCI World Championships, which was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that the FINDRA team was fortunate enough to attend and be a part of.
“Every bend, every trail, and every uphill at Glentress echoes with stories of countless cyclists who've embraced the thrill of the ride. It's our backyard, our playground, and to watch the world's best cyclists compete on these familiar trails was nothing short of surreal.”
Thank you to everyone who has followed and supported FINDRA throughout the year. We hope 2024 is filled with more amazing stories from our ever growing, inspirational community.
Our Favourite Inspiration
Favourite Song - Highway Blue by Erin Durant, picked by Charlotte Muller Stuart
Favourite Podcast - The Everyday Adventure, picked by Kate Mackay
Favourite Book - Where There's A Will: Hope, Grief and Endurance in a Cycle Race Across a Continent by Emily Chappell, picked by Leanne Wrightson
