Leon De Valle and Charwing, the first duo to circumnavigate the earth we live on

Leon De Valle has made history as the first-ever Pokémon Trainer to circumnavigate the world on the back of a Pokémon successfully. While others have attempted this daring feat, most journeys ended before reaching the halfway mark. For De Valle and her trusty Talonflame, affectionately named Charwing, it was a challenge they were determined to overcome.

Over the years, a handful of ambitious trainers have set out to accomplish the same. In 2012, Trainer Mikey attempted the journey on his Fearow but was forced to abandon the expedition due to logistical issues and airspace restrictions over certain regions. Gym Leader Winona of Fortree City also launched a well-documented attempt in 2017 atop her Altaria. However, she ultimately had to withdraw midway through the Hoenn Sea Route due to severe weather conditions and concerns for her Pokémon’s stamina.

Starting and ending at the Mossdeep Space Station in her home region of Hoenn, De Valle's achievement now marks the first successful circumnavigation, securing her place in Pokémon history.

Since beginning her journey as a trainer, De Valle has traveled the globe with her Pokémon, collecting experiences—and badges—from all corners of the world. Her passport includes stamps from the desolate Orre Region to the vibrant Alola Region. She has competed in countless Pokémon League tournaments and traditional leagues, amassing over 77 official badges and 8 unofficial ones. In Alola, she collected multiple Z-Crystals, which she jokingly refers to as "Alola's Gym Badges—but not quite."

"Traveling has always been a passion of mine," De Valle said. "Getting to know the cultures of places I could never dream of—it’s why I started training in the first place. So I figured, why not try and make a record?"

Not everyone has celebrated the achievement, however. Some critics have raised concerns about Charwing’s well-being. De Valle has responded by citing Talonflame’s official Pokédex entry, which states it can carry up to 220 lbs (100 kg). With her own weight at around 140 lbs, she assures the public that Charwing was well within safe limits throughout the journey.

Leon De Valle and Charwing will go down in Pokémon history—not just for their record-setting flight, but for proving that with determination and trust, the sky is not the limit, but only the start of it.