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Wave Vidmar - Biography
Are young explorers born that way?
Maybe. Wave has been a solo explorer since he was a young boy. In fact, when just 6 years old he was known to just get on any bus that opened its doors. He always made it home, though.
Personal philosophy
Success builds success. Wave sees the world as challenges, not roadblocks. Whatever he has been interested in, he pursues. An important lesson that Wave learned long ago is the power of belief. How you believe and what you believe in makes all the difference in our capabilities, and outcomes. A master of understatement, when asked about going to such a cold and hostile environment, Wave is likely to tell you "it's chilly." Wave's upbeat outlook keeps him going when the going gets tough.
Why is he doing this?
By the time he was 26, Wave had already bike toured through Europe, leaving the U.S. with only $98 and a one-way plane ticket. He enjoyed the challenges he faced and conquered, and had the time of his life.
Riding a bicycle solo across America in 2000 gave him plenty of time to ponder other life goals, including exploring both the North and South Poles. Upon his return, Wave turned his attention to taking on challenges that continued to entrance him. He began writing books. Though he still continued to explore and challenge himself with climbing and other outdoors activities, he was feeling rather sedentary and felt he needed a big challenge - something to really sink his teeth into. Doing some research on the internet Wave came across a website offering skydiving at the North Pole and the seeds of his next challenge were sown.
Who inspires/mentors Wave
Wave's mentoring for the North Pole expedition has come from several noted explorers. Tom Sjorgen of T+T (Tom + Tina) has been of great assistance. Dave Mills, another polar explorer, was also instrumental in helping Wave out in the beginning. And of course Borge Ousland, the undisputed king of polar explorers has been both an inspiration and mentor to Wave.
Age: 39
Weight: 175lbs (and increasing)
Born in: San Diego, CA
Grew up in: California, Minnesota, Texas, Louisiana and other states
Lives in: Bay Area, Northern California
