My name is Holly Budge. Last October, I became the first woman to skydive Mount Everest from 29,500ft, freefalling at more than 140mph, in -40C before landing on the world’s highest dropzone at 12,500ft.
I have worked in the skydiving industry for over nine years as an
freefall camera flyer with more than 2,000 jumps. I am a qualified rock climbing instructor, an accomplished snowboarder and equestrian event rider. As well as being an adventurer, I run my own design agency and have just launched an award-winning skydiving e-learning platform.
I aim to make history for the second time this year when I compete in the world's longest and toughest horse race - The Mongol Derby.
I has been selected as one of 25 international competitors, including three times champion national hunt jockey Richard Dunwoody, to solo-navigate 1000 kms across Mongolia on semi wild Mongolian horses. I aim to finish in one week, changing horses every 40kms and riding up to 14 hours each day, carrying all my food, tent and other equipment. This adventure will test my nerve, fitness and endurance to the limit.
I am a motivational speaker, passionate about sharing my experiences and have worked both sides of the camera on previous expeditions. Skydive Everest gained me worldwide media coverage, including live TV interviews on Sky & CBS.
As a spirited adventurer, I am always searching for new challenges. Exploring a country as diverse and enchanting as South Africa is a challenge I would relish.
