Kenya 400: Watamu or Bust!

PTSD Resolution CEO Charles Highett will join five lifelong friends on an ambitious 420 km cycling expedition across Kenya this August to raise funds for Veterans suffering from trauma-related mental health issues.

‘Kenya 400: Watamu or Bust!’ will see six former classmates from King's School Bruton (1969–1974) navigate from Ziwani near the Tanzanian border to Watamu on Kenya's eastern coast between 25th and 29th August 2025 – all for PTSD Resolution.

With over 4,500 referrals to date, registered charity PTSD Resolution is dedicated to assisting UK Veterans, Reservists, and family members struggling to reintegrate into everyday life. Founded in 2009, the charity is accredited by the Royal College of Psychiatrists to the Quality Network for Veterans Mental Health Services (QNVMHS). It provides free, prompt, and effective treatment – with one-to-one therapy available in person, online, or by phone.

The intrepid ‘Kenya 400’ team – Tony, Alistair, Simon, Adam, Paul, and Charles – all turning 70 this year, will cycle through the spectacular Eastern and Western Tsavo game reserves, covering between 50 and 100 km daily. Support vehicles will accompany the team to ensure safety during wildlife encounters and help navigate challenging terrain.

"Now is the time to do something like this. Between July and March next year, we're all turning 70. Another five years from now, we might not want to take on such a challenge!” — Alistair Waite

Half a Century of Friendship

The enduring friendship between these six Old Brutonians makes the epic challenge particularly special. Bonds formed at school have lasted five decades:

"Relationships that were formed in the early 70s are still as strong, if not stronger than ever.” — Charles Highett

‘Kenya 400’ will both celebrate lifelong camaraderie – and support a cause close to Highett's heart, as the CEO of PTSD Resolution.

Supporting Veterans' Mental Health

"PTSD is an ordinary reaction to extraordinary events. Our charity helps Veterans and their families reclaim their lives." — Charles Highett

When individuals experience traumatic events – such as combat, explosions, or life-threatening situations – the brain stores these memories in the amygdala, the primal part of the brain. Though the brain typically suppresses these memories, they can be triggered by sensory cues, causing flashbacks, hyper-awareness, anxiety, and more.

PTSD Resolution employs various therapeutic techniques, including a "rewind process" that helps clients gain control over intrusive memories. In a semi-hypnotic state, therapists guide clients through their experiences until the trauma becomes less overwhelming.

The Charity’s Reach

"We treat in prisons, we treat those with substance issues, we have a families programme where we treat the families because there's sometimes reflective trauma." — Charles Highett

The charity has expanded beyond the UK, recently offering resilience training to Ukrainian Defence Forces through a train-the-trainer programme.

PTSD Resolution maintains a lean structure with no salaried staff or assets, ensuring donations directly support treatment.

Following Their Journey

‘Kenya 400’ aims to raise between £3,500 and £4,000 for PTSD Resolution. The team will document their journey daily on their JustGiving page, sharing updates and photographs of their adventure through Kenya’s stunning landscapes.

Follow the team as they embark on the ride of a lifetime, both strengthening bonds formed five decades ago – and helping those who have served find hope and healing.

To support the 'Kenya 400' challenge and PTSD Resolution's vital work, visit the team’s JustGiving page.