Karate instructor treks to Everest base Camp

HIKING to the foot of the world’s highest mountain has always been an ambitious dream of Westville karate instructor, Brian Govender and this goal was recently accomplished when he reached the base camp of Mount Everest.

Following his successful hike up Mount Kilimanjaro in 2014 and his recent nine-day climb to the Everest Base Camp, Govender, a 38-year-old 5th Dan Black belt, aspires to reach the summit of Mount Everest some day.

Speaking about the preparation for his recent climb, Govender said, “Karate definitely helped me develop a strong and positive mind over the years. However, preparation for this climb included strength and endurance training, most of which took place at the gym six times a week.

“My two clients, Arvind Puncham and Shalin Samlall, who trekked up with me were trained by me. We did a few local hikes and a few hikes in the Drakensberg. In total, it took us nine days to get to base camp. We started off in a town called Lukla and it then took us three days to get back down.

His message to those who are determined to embark on a similar adventure is, “Anything is possible with the right attitude. Your attitude determines your altitude. Focus on just putting one foot in front of the other. Every step gets you closer to your destination. Those who wish to go to base camp should start training at least six months in advance with a minimum of four times a week of moderate to intense sessions.”

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