Climb Mount Kilimanjaro in support of the Sandton SPCA
SANDTON – Hikers prepare for the challenge through a training routine for a gym or home involving lots of hiking and stair training.
With nine spaces taken so far and 16 remaining, local adventurers are encouraged to join the 6th annual SPCA Kilimanjaro Challenge from 18 July.
The purpose of the climb is to take hikers out of their comfort zone and raise funds to assist the Sandton SPCA – they aim to raise R1 million for the organisation.
Challenge coordinator Stephanie Brown said, “Anyone with a passion for adventure and a desire to make a difference should join. You don’t need any technical mountaineering skills, but you need to prepare for the climb and be physically and mentally fit. Kilimanjaro, at 5 895m, is not to be under-estimated, but the enormous personal challenge is part of the Kilimanjaro experience.”
The team of hikers will trek up the Rongai route over seven days. “I like the seven-day climb because it gives the team the chance to acclimatise and reach the summit feeling strong and able to enjoy the beauty of the surroundings and sense of achievement.”
The team will leave OR Tambo International Airport on 18 July (Mandela Day) and return on 26 July.
Anile Peiser, who completed the hike in 2017, said it was the perfect opportunity to combine animal charity with a physical and mental challenge. “You are one with nature, get to meet new people from across the world and learn to push yourself more than ever before. And the chef’s good food was a great bonus,” said Peiser. She is considering completing the challenge this year alongside her 11-year-old son.
Brown explained that the expedition draws climbers from all over the world who want to experience Africa’s highest peak and make a difference. Last year, the team included climbers from Canada, India, Germany, Netherlands, the UK and USA.
The challenge team will be provided with a training routine for gym or home involving lots of hiking and stair training at the Westcliff steps. The team also meets regularly to train together. Their first training event is set to take place on 25 January with a 10km hike at Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve.
To reserve a place in the event, email spcakilimanjaro@gmail.com or visit www.spcakilichallenge.com.
Related article:
https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/233223/spca-kilimanjaro-challenge-raises-r400-000-for-sandton-spca/
