A FORMER prisoner who has “transformed” his life will “plant trees of hope” in a prison in an effort to help others in the same situation he once held.
David Haze, 37, from Bournemouth, has served a three-year sentence for burglary and receiving stolen property at Guys Marsh prison.
A former forex trader in London, David turned to crime and drugs after losing a job in the city, which earned him two stints in prison.
However, he has since turned his life around and now has seven paddle records to his name, with his eighth bid coming next month.
On October 14, he will fly to Reykjavik and then to Egilsstaðir with the aim of crossing Iceland’s longest lake, Logurinn, in less than six hours.
To offset the 322kg of CO2 emissions created by his 3800km return flight, he is partnering with The Woodland Trust to plant 70 trees on the grounds of HMP Leyhill in Gloucester.
After enrolling in a prison reform program, he turned his life around and said the decision to plant trees on prison grounds “will give hope to others who are in the same situation as me.
David said: “The great outdoors and nature have completely transformed my life and I hope I can pass that on and help others through some of the toughest times in their lives.”
He will plant a variety of species, including alders, common beeches, common osiers and field maples, within the prison grounds “to create green space in an environment surrounded by so much failure and negativity. to inspire growth, rehabilitation and connection with nature.”
His Icelandic challenge follows his recent 70m circumnavigation of the Isle of Wight which was “completely carbon neutral” and is sponsored by UK-based environmental technology company Oscar Propulsion.
His unique patented split design on his paddles allowed him to paddle longer while reducing the risk of injury.
Duncan Troy, CEO of Oscar Propulsion, said: “To have Oscar Propulsion’s blade technology validated by such an inspiring young man is incredible.
“David Haze is a truly remarkable role model and it’s great to contribute to his journey and his well-being.”
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