If product manager Tony Sebastian ever gets stuck in a massive, multi-hour traffic jam along the PIE, he’d probably take the ordeal in his stride.
After all, what’s a few hours when he has already spent days – five to be precise – inside a vehicle for the purpose of charity.
The 39-year-old Singaporean achieved the feat from Feb 27 to March 3, when he drove 574km across Singapore – all to promote the charity Food from the Heart.
His efforts have been acknowledged as the “Longest Stay in a Car” by the Singapore Book of Records.
Partnering Food from the Heart, a charity committed to battling hunger, Mr Sebastian was also on a mission to spread the word about Heart on Wheels, an event that aimed to provide food packages to 25,000 needy people in Singapore.
At the end of his drive, 22,246 food items were delivered and more than $52,000 raised.
He also did a “Bread Run”, distributing leftover food items from bakeries to the needy.
“It wasn’t just about breaking records. It was about proving that determination and dedication are the keys to success in any endeavour,” said Mr Sebastian.
Driving a Land Rover Defender 110, sponsored by Wearnes Automotive, Mr Sebastian meticulously planned his route over four months with the help of friends and family.
There were night stops and food distribution points.
However, as with any adventure, unexpected challenges arose.
Regulations prohibited Mr Sebastian from using air conditioning in his parked vehicle at night, forcing him to sleep with mosquito nets and the windows open.
Limited bathroom facilities and parking restrictions also tested his resilience along the way.
“Sleeping in a car for five consecutive nights was definitely not easy,” said the 1.82m-tall man.
With only two hours allocated each day to get out of the car for basic needs like food and stretching, it was tough going. But he pressed on, driven by his determination to make a difference.
He said the journey was also about exploring new places, meeting new people and pushing his limits both mentally and physically.
Mr Sebastian hopes his effort will inspire others, especially the youth, to pursue innovative endeavours with a purpose and meaning.
