I, a German firefighter, have competed in Ironman 3 times and hope to become a survival master
My name is Christopher Rauch. I am 34 years old and work as a professional firefighter in Germany.
Since my childhood, I dreamed of becoming a firefighter and was able to fulfill my dream.
1. Realizing Dream
Once upon a time in Germany, there lived a determined and adventurous soul named Christopher. As a child, he roamed the enchanting forests, constructing imaginative shelters and secret hiding spots. His love for nature and the great outdoors fueled his spirit.
As he grew older, a new passion emerged – cycling. Christopher's days were filled with exhilarating rides, and his skills led him to work in a bike shop, where he honed his expertise in selling and repairing bikes.
However, Christopher's true calling was yet to be discovered. The turning point came when he embarked on a rigorous journey to become a firefighter.
The demanding training consumed his time, leaving little room for his beloved cycling adventures. Nevertheless, he remained resilient, determined to pursue his dream. After completing the firefighter exam, he found himself yearning for a new passion, a new challenge.
2. Ironman Period
"I started training for triathlons in 2016 and have competed in 3 consecutive triathlons from 2017-2019. By 2020, when I wanted to participate for a fourth time, a new coronavirus outbreak put an end to my plans to compete. I have attended three Ironman events and finished each one.
Here I have to say training is one thing, but you win something like that in your head.
-- ITS A MINDSET --
Ironman is something special, you feel good, the next moment bad again, then suddenly good again. This goes on for hours... Constantly up and down.
Here the head is challenged because I can stop and stop - at any time!"
Enter the world of triathlons. Christopher dove headfirst into the realm of swimming, biking, and running, dedicating a staggering 25 hours a week to training for the ultimate goal – IRONMAN.
The Ironman, a triathlon that we are more familiar with, has reached a distance of 3.862 kilometers of swimming, 180.246 kilometers of cycling, and 42.195 kilometers of running. Even elite male athletes need 8 hours or more.
In 2016, Christopher began training for triathlons and completed three consecutive triathlons between 2017 to 2019. In 2020, a coronavirus outbreak forced the cancellation of his plans to compete in a fourth triathlon. Christopher has completed three IRONMAN triathlons, saying that while training is critical, "you win something like that in your head. It's a mindset." The IRONMAN triathlon provides constant ups and downs for hours.
Over three years, he faced countless trials and triumphs, pushing himself to the limits. Yet, the mental toll began to weigh heavily, leaving him feeling burnt out and uninspired.
3. Outdoor Period
"For outside, I first had to get suitable clothes, a sleeping bag, and a large backpack.
Furthermore, fire steel, water filter, and little things like knives and paracord as well as a first aid kit or IFAK.
I deliberately do without a tent because I want to enjoy nature, which I can only do to a limited extent in a tent. I sleep in my sleeping bag, so I have a bivy sack and a sleeping mat."
However, Christopher's unwavering spirit sought solace in the very place where his childhood adventures thrived – the peaceful embrace of the forest. Here, he discovered his sanctuary, where he could sleep beneath the starlit sky, gather around crackling campfires, and build shelters that echoed the wonders of his youth. Equipped with suitable gear like a sleeping bag, backpack, fire steel, water filter, and the essentials of survival, Christopher found solace in nature's embrace.
4. Survival Touch
In his career as a firefighter, Christopher experienced moments that touched his soul. The joy of aiding people in dire situations, particularly when it involved saving babies and children, ignited a flame within him. One event, in particular, left an indelible mark. Guiding a panicked mother over the phone to successfully resuscitate her 8-month-old child, Christopher witnessed the incredible power of life-saving skills and their profound impact.
Driven by his desire to do more for others, Christopher participated in a marathon, donning the weighty gear of a firefighter, symbolizing the burdens carried by burn victims.
The exhaustion paled in comparison to the satisfaction of raising donations for children affected by burns.
Inspired to expand his knowledge and share his expertise, he pondered, "Could others benefit from first aid skills too?"
5. "Survival Academy"&Rhino Rescue
Motivated by this question, Christopher embarked on a new chapter in his life. He founded the "Tactical Combat Survival Academy" to empower individuals with essential survival skills and first aid knowledge. Courses catering to outdoor enthusiasts, beginners, and advanced learners, as well as specialized training for hunters and riflemen, were his way of extending a helping hand to those seeking guidance. The academy's launch was imminent, with Christopher eagerly preparing materials like resuscitation manikins, bandages, tourniquets, and more.
"My company is still quite new. The first course is planned for June. I still have to get some material for the training. resuscitation manikin, bandage material, TQ, and similar."
"This is where I came across Rhino Rescue. I needed material for my IFAK and ordered various items online to view. At Rhino Rescue, I was amazed at the variety and quality and used the products out of conviction. They are also used in my courses and are also very popular with the participants."
During his quest for survival resources, Christopher encountered Rhino Rescue. Their products astounded him with their variety, exceptional quality, and unwavering dedication to preparedness. Filled with conviction, he incorporated Rhino Rescue's equipment into his courses, captivating his participants with their effectiveness and reliability.
6. Survival Synergy
In the present day, Christopher finds himself embracing the perfect synergy between his firefighting profession and his role as a trainer. Through his experiences, he has amassed invaluable knowledge, which he generously imparts to his eager participants. The future holds the promise of additional courses, including Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC) and Tactical.
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