Defying Expectations: A Wheelchair User and His Friend Conquer the Globe
A New Beginning After Tragedy
Sandego.net – When Fletcher Crowley suffered a devastating spinal injury during a mountain biking mishap in September 2023, medical professionals delivered what seemed like a life-altering verdict. They classified him as paraplegic and assured him that walking would remain a distant memory. Yet, rather than accepting this prognosis, Crowley embarked on an extraordinary journey alongside his closest companion, Lachie Bennett. Together, they traversed four continents over three months, conquering mountain peaks and embracing thrilling adventures across Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America.
Their expedition demonstrated that friendship and an optimistic “Say yes” philosophy can transform seemingly impossible dreams into reality. Through creative problem-solving and determination, the duo discovered ways to access landmarks that most wheelchair users cannot reach. From ascending Hong Kong’s 268 steps to the Big Buddha while riding on Bennett’s back, to navigating the snow-covered Swiss Dolomites and gliding along the French Riviera on an e-bike wheelchair tandem, their journey redefined what is possible.
Building a Partnership Through Shared Passion
Their bond deepened during Crowley’s six-month hospital recovery following an intensive rehabilitation program. During this period, he reconnected with Bennett, who had been working at a spinal cord injury support and hotel facility located in Sydney’s northern beaches region. Crowley attended physiotherapy sessions there, and their mutual love for adventure strengthened their friendship considerably.
Before this transformative period, both men had explored the world independently, occasionally taking domestic trips together. Bennett recently completed a solo journey through Mexico and the United States, while Crowley—who transitioned to adaptive skiing following his accident—spent winter months at Australia’s Perisher ski resort before exploring Japan’s slopes.
“I had been building a jump to do a double back flip,” he said. “I did it about six times and landed it, falling onto my side. Then, on the seventh try, I landed on my neck.”
A Serendipitous Travel Opportunity
What began as a modest two-week South American adventure evolved into something far greater. A compelling offer from Flight Centre travel agency convinced them to purchase a multi-stop ticket, enabling visits to four continents for the identical price of $2,800 AUD ($1,480 USD) per person.
“We just jumped on it,” Bennett said. “Europe and Hong Kong hadn’t really crossed our minds, but suddenly we were going.”
Instead of limiting themselves to conventional accessible accommodations and activities, the friends prioritized authentic experiences through a “we can make this work” mentality. Their Instagram channel, ‘twomates1chair,’ documented their adventures for an engaged community of 140,000 followers.
Conquering Challenges with Creativity
Starting in Hong Kong, Bennett provided Crowley with a piggyback ride up to the magnificent Big Buddha statue nestled among mountains. They humorously labeled this endeavor “two mates, no chair and 12 flights of steps.” In one memorable video, Bennett stretches his legs before hoisting Crowley—weighing 170 pounds plus 30 pounds of camera equipment—onto his back for a 30-minute descent over wet, slippery terrain.
“Nothing is impossible,” Bennett says in the clip, moments after their feat.
While exploring Hong Kong, they also climbed Victoria Peak, achieving a 1,180-foot ascent comparable to the Empire State Building’s roof height for panoramic city views.
“A local told us about this accessible hike and it was, in that it was paved. But holy smokes, that was a steep push,” Bennett told CNN. “Fletch’s arms were dead, my calves were burning, but it was insane and totally worth it.”
Redefining Accessibility
Crowley’s upper body strength, youthful energy, and skating background helped his wheelchair feel “natural and comfy,” significantly enhancing his mobility. The friends recognized that their extraordinary journey might not suit every wheelchair user, as success depends on physical capability, support networks, and appropriate equipment.
“Our plan was just to show us, and the chair is tagging along,” Crowley told CNN during their final days in South Africa, as they drove through a mountain pass en route to a paragliding experience. “Most of the stuff we do would not be under the general term of ‘accessible’ — we’ve definitely pushed that. Some things have to be done a bit differently and we have to work a little harder for them, but they are so much more rewarding.”
In May, family and friends gathered in Sydney to welcome the pair home after their action-packed exploration of ten countries. Their journey stands as testament to human resilience and the power of saying yes to life’s unexpected opportunities.
