@newsjunkie
That's kind of the point.
I've only done two things which were similar. Because you do need a hook for the media, sponsors etc., I understand that completely.
- First expedition to drive from London to Singapore without the use of ferries. Thank you Eurotunnel! Not a biggie, but we did have to do a few detours to find bridges rather than the obvious ferry crossings. If we had taken a boat/ferry, then we would no longer have been able to make the claim.
- First (and still only) team to telemark Aconcagua. Same, if in the end we'd not been able to telemark it, we wouldn't have been able to claim it.
There are always obstacles to aiming high (otherwise it wouldn't interest sponsors/press), and so failure is normal and perfectly acceptable (though very disappointing). But, if you decide to change the plan for something easier, you have to tell everyone!