Earning the title of Most Inspiring Person of 2017 sets Donegal woman Nikki Bradley on the path to success for the year ahead.
Adaptive adventurer and public speaker Nikki Bradley (31) has a new accolade to add to her list following last week’s Outsider Awards in Dublin.
Jim O’Neill presenting the Most Inspiring Person award to Nikki Bradley, Adventurer at the Outsider Magazine awards. Photo: Kieran Harnett
Nikki was one of eleven award winners recognised for doing amazing things outside mainstream sport on the Irish outdoor and adventure scene.She also guested on the panel to share her remarkable story.
As a cancer survivor and battler through two hip replacements from the age of 26, Nikki works to raise awareness of Ewing’s Sarcoma and the importance of exercise for rehabilitation.
On this latest achievement, Nikki told Donegal Woman: “I was genuinely shocked to win! The caliber of athletes in attendance was unbelievable and I felt truly lucky to simply be there, never mind walk away with an award.
“It has left me feeling more determined than ever to succeed in the adventure arena and I hope to spend the next year learning everything I can.
“In July I plan to take on 4 Irish mountains (on crutches) in 24 hours, something I never would have considered two years ago.”
“I have realised that pretty much anything is possible if you have the right team around you and a positive frame of mind” – Nikki
Jim O’Neill presenting the Most Inspiring Person award to Nikki Bradley, Adventurer at the Outsider Magazine awards. Photo: Kieran Harnett
This award marks the beginning of a big year for Nikki, as she is in training for a monumental challenge on July 21st, 2018.
Nikki plans to climb four of Ireland’s most iconic mountain peaks in just 24 hours. She will be the first-ever crutch user to take on this gruelling task across Carrauntoohil, Croagh Patrick, Slieve Donard and Errigal. Experienced Donegal mountaineer and rock climber Iain Miller will also be attempting the challenge with Nikki on the day.
This is just one of many adventures Nikki has completed in recent years as she strives to push herself physically and mentally in her Fighting Fit For Ewing’s campaign. Nikki has done the ‘Fan Dance’ in Wales; a task used to train the British Special Forces, she has attempted a Guinness World record in Holland, conquered The Sturrall, Slieve League, abseiled off Fanad Lighthouse and even scaled a glacier in Iceland.
Nikki hopes the Four Peaks challenge will raise a substantial amount of money for three charities: the Irish Cancer Society, Action Cancer and the Ross Nugent Foundation.
The Ross Nugent Foundation was set up by Don and Sandra Nugent after their son, Ross, lost his battle with Ewing’s Sarcoma in 2010.
If you would like to sponsor this event, email info@nikkibradleyspeaks.com
Billy and Jason Black at the Outside Magazine Awards
Letterkenny’s Jason Black was also recognised at the Outside Magazine Awards. The endurance athlete, Mt Everest climber and world record setter was nominated for Outsider Man of the Year 2017. This award was won by endurance cyclist Joe Barr.
