HONOLULU (AP) —
A guy from Oregon left his job at a tire firm and used up his retirement funds to embark on a journey to Hawaii.
Accompanied by his cat, Phoenix, he arrived at his destination on Saturday, greeted by enthusiastic supporters after a weeks-long trip that he shared with his large following on social media.
Oliver Widger, who received a warm welcome from Hawaii Governor Josh Green at the Waikiki Yacht Club on Oahu, admitted to being anxious about addressing the audience, which comprised several journalists. He mentioned that he felt quite strange—not sea-sick exactly—but rather as though he needed “to kind of cling onto stuff so I don’t topple over.”
Four years after being diagnosed with a condition carrying a risk of paralysis, he gained widespread attention through sharing his journey. This health challenge led him to recognize his discontentment with his management role. Consequently, without financial resources or a specific plan, he left his position burdened by $10,000 in debt. His aim was to acquire a sailboat and embark on a voyage circumnavigating the globe.
He taught himself to sail mostly via YouTube and moved from Portland to the Oregon coast. He spent months refitting the $50,000 boat he bought.
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He set sail for Hawaii with Phoenix in late April, documenting their experiences for his more than 1 million followers on TikTok and 1.7 million followers on Instagram. He said he thinks his story, which made national news, resonated with people.
I believe many individuals find themselves working tirelessly every day, and regardless of their income level, everyone seems focused merely on making ends meet, which can be quite draining,” he stated. “The world currently feels rather peculiar, and I think people have realized they might as well venture beyond their usual limits.
Green handed Widger a proclamation. Following the news conference, fans crowded around Widger, numerous individuals brandishing cameras and requesting for selfie opportunities.
Widger mentioned that the most frightening moment occurred when a rudder malfunctioned. Among the highlights were spotting dolphins and whales as well as experiencing stretches of tranquil Pacific waters. He stated, “It was surreal being out at sea with perfectly still water stretching endlessly in all directions.”
Widger, 29, mentioned that he never really felt isolated because he stayed connected with his friends through various methods such as video calls. However, he expressed regret at not being able to experience the open sea in the same manner as other sailors who lacked access to technologies like Starlink internet satellites had done in previous years.
He mentioned that he might head to French Polynesia next. However, he stated that his primary focus has been reaching Hawaii and not planning beyond that point. He added that he also needs to carry out some repairs on his vessel.
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