National Geographic announced their Adventurers of the Year for 2010 yesterday, honoring ten men and women who have pushed the boundaries of exploration, conservation, and adventure sports in the past year.
Amongst those making the list are Jessica Watson, the teenager who sailed solo around the world and Roz Savage, who completed a solo row across the Pacific Ocean this past summer. Also getting the nod were 12 year old climber Matt Moniz, who set a speed record for climbing the highest peaks in all 50 states, and my personal pick for adventurer of the year, Ed Stafford. Stafford is the British explorer who made headlines in August for completing a source-to-sea walk along the entire length of the Amazon River.
While the Nat Geo staff did an excellent job of picking some great winners this year, they’re also inviting the public to participating in picking the People’s Choice Adventurer of the Year as well. To that end, they’ve set up a voting page where you can find out more about each of the nominees, and cast your vote for the one that you think is the most deserving. Voting will run through January 15, 2011, and the winner will be announced in February.
To read all about these adventurers, check out their in depth profiles here and a photo gallery showing off their exploits here. You can also review all of the past winners by clicking here.
Congratulations to all of this year’s winners. You’re in inspiration to us all.
[Photo credit: Edurne Pasaban]