tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5650955083268250392024-02-19T01:39:25.819+00:00My Kilimanjaro charity climbAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-21428667785800421232013-09-02T18:56:00.000+01:002013-09-02T18:56:00.193+01:00Kilimanjaro Challenge Day 8 30th August 2013We started the final day on the mountain saying farewell to our amazing team. We had a tipping ceremony where we had all clubbed together tips to show our appreciation. Dean had divided the tips into envelopes for specific groups of the team ie Guides, assistant guides, porters, chef, etc. Dean asked if any volunteers would like to say a few words and hand over an envelope. I volunteered and was given an envelope fittingly for the summit porters, one of their crew was Adams who I owed a great debt of thanks for helping me to the top. When my turn came I stepped to the front, Godfrey translated my words for the members of the crew who did not have great English. I simply said that climbing the mountain was the hardest thing I'd ever done but having such a great team, no doubt made the job much easier.<br />
Our team sang songs like the first night in camp. We shook hands and said our goodbyes then made the long 5 hour walk down hill back through the rainforest to Mweka gate, our exit from the mountain.<br />
The walk was steep, rocky in parts, muddy and slippery in other parts. I walked most of the way down with Josie and Simon. I was pretty quiet most of the way down, deep in concentration. Descents are not my speciality. Having already had a few minor tumbles during the week, the thought of getting crocked on the last day did not appeal. By the end of the walk we had all about had enough of the descent. Finally we reached the gate. Some of our group had already got there. We waited for the rest of the group. Dave bought a supply of sprite which we all enjoyed, much nicer than water. After signing out we had a glass of bubbly each before boarding the bus to the hotel.<br />
We got to the hotel, Andy went for a beer and I dived in the shower. I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror and laughed. What a complete mess. I had a moustache and goatee, as <br />
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well as quite a dirty dusty face. The shower and shave was heaven. Finally clean I had a beautiful buffet lunch. We remained in the bar drinking until dinner and had a wonderful meal and more drinks. We all wanted to celebrate our fantastic achievement. I tried my first skittle bomb, and Jaeger bomb, as well as several bottles of Kilimanjaro beer. It was a fun evening, many tough, determined people letting their hair down. This truly had been a special week, its something that will stay with me forever. The achievement in reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro is sinking in and fills me with great pride and also the confidence that now I have completed this challenge there is nothing I can't do if I set my mind to it.<br />
It has also been special because of the people I enjoyed the challenge with. I met many amazing,wonderful people, kind, determined, fun people. I can honestly say I got on with everyone in our group and I don't think I ever heard anyone argue with anyone else. We formed a great team. Then of course there was our great support team. I still am in awe of them. Climbing Kili is their job, they make it look easy. They are truly amazing people who are kind and considerate and were so helpful.<br />
I left Tanzania the following day flying to Nairobi for a very long 8 hour layover before flying back to London Heathrow on Sunday 1st September. Stepping off the plane wearily brought the curtain down on my amazing adventure, almost 8 months in the making. What started as an idea turned into an amazing reality. For a guy who had never climbed a mountain 8 months ago to be able to summit the highest free standing mountain in the world just goes to show that if you want something bad enough, if you believe in yourself and don't give up, then you can achieve whatever you want.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-30082719471731198022013-09-02T18:55:00.000+01:002013-09-02T18:55:05.188+01:00Kilimanjaro Challenge Day 7 29th August 2013.I made my way to the mess tent for a hot drink. The adrenaline was already starting to pump. Here we go, it's almost time to go achieve the dream, the goal that has been driving me all year really. I was feeling pumped up but at the same time a little scared.<br />
After a snack we lined up outside. Head torches switched on, trying not to blind eachother. As it was so cold, we did not hang around long. Time to go.<br />
We started in single file up a steep rocky path. I know I was behind Cora, and Andy was behind me at the start. I occasionally looked up to see a long line of torchlight way above me zig zagging in formation up the mountain. We were not the only group attacking the summit tonight. The trail was full of people attempting to make their dreams come true. My group all wore reflecting bands on their arms so we could see who was in our group. Our guides and some porters were with us to help. Now and again a member of crew would walk by me asking how I was.<br />
After an hour we stopped for a quick snack break and water. We did not stop for long as it was so cold. I soon warmed up again walking. The climb got steeper and I could feel I was breathing hard. I knew I was in the best shape of my life so fitness was not the problem, it was the altitude. We would be gaining 1200 meters tonight. Hard work.<br />
We were taking a rest stop every hour. Initially the time between breaks flew, but further into the night it seemed 60 minutes was an eternity. At around 4am on a break we were served tea. I enjoyed that and really needed it. I was beginning to feel a little nauseous from the altitude. It wasn't go to stop me though.<br />
The line was pretty quiet when we were walking. Everyone I'm sure concentrating, doing what they needed to do to get through this. I can remember before we set off that Dean said, if any of us appeared drunk we'd be pulled from the line and turned around. By drunk he meant the altitude was having a bad affect and making you feel drunk and a loss of coordination. I went through my alphabet in my head from time to time to just make sure that I was still on the ball and functioning properly.<br />
By around 5am I went through what I think a marathon runner would call the wall. I had to really slow down my pace. I was suffering physically with the effort I was putting in. I was very troubled mentally aswell. I felt so rotten inside. I felt like I was right on the verge of giving up. Every step hurt. What had I been thinking? This was far too hard. Give up, go back to camp have a nice sleep. 'NO!!! If you turn back now you'll never forgive yourself. All the people back home, friends, family everyone who supported me, what would they think of me. 'It got hard, I gave up'. What about all the dogs that have a tough life? Can they give up? Course they can't. It took some time but I finally pulled my socks up and got back to business. One foot in front of the other. I'd weathered the storm. I'd seen off the negative thoughts for now, and I'd do it again several more times over the next few hours.<br />
The sun began to breach the horizon around 6.30 am. What a beautiful sight. I regret not taking a photo, but I was deep into my walking and concentrating hard by then. The sunlight lifted my spirits and I could turn my head torch off.<br />
The rocky scree path continued upwards, and I kept going. Our group had got quite split up now. I could make out some of the group ahead, and behind me. I had to zig zag up a sheer mountain of scree. It was really hard work. Every step you took, your foot would slide back a little. Around 8am I was moving slowly but surely. I stopped to catch my breath. A porter who had been near me stopped. He said 'You're a really strong man, but I want to help you' He introduced himself as Adams and took my rucksack from me, leaving me free of the weight on my back and just me and my walking poles to finish the job off. Soon, my heart lifted. I saw something a little above me on a diagonal to my left. Something green. I knew straight away what that was! I'd seen it on the internet. It was the sign marking Stella Point. I nearly screamed at Adams 'Stella Point?' 'Yes' Adams smiled. Inside it was like fireworks going off. I was almost exhausted but I was going to do this. Soon we got off the scree to level ground. I looked at the sign ahead of me. Guides came up to me shaking my hand. Godfrey was there and smiled 'No surrender Gareth, well done, I'm proud' Stella Point is a milestone. It is at the crater rim. I could remember a few days prior,Amanda saying if you make it to Stella Point and feel ok you will make it to the summit. I was feeling ok, tired, but ok. Was I about to pull this off? I had my photo taken by the Stella Point sign and then Adams and I took off for Uhuru peak. We left our bags at Stella Point, I just had my poles and camera. Slowly but surely we got closer and closer. Adams pointed out things I should photograph. The incredible glacier to our left, the volcano rim to my right. We stopped for a short rest, we then went again.<br />
The path curved right then left and up a slope. As I approached the top of a slope, a man walking towards me smiled, pointed at my hat and said 'Always room for another West Ham fan at the top, almost there mate, go get it!' That made me smile, I wasn't the first Hammer at the top then, but that didn't bother me in the slightest.<br />
Finally I could see the green sign ahead indicating Uhuru Peak. Coming towards me were many of my group who had been ahead of me. They were making their way back to Stella Point and their descent. It was very emotional. I was congratulating them on their success and they were congratulating me, and urging me on to walk the final few yards.<br />
At around 0930 all my dreams came true. I stood proudly at the sign of Uhuru Peak 5896 meters or 19340 feet above sea level.I'd made it. After having my photo taken I remember dropping to my knees and just trying to soak in what was going on. What on earth had I just done? Was this really happening? It was hard to digest. I also had a photo taken with Jen at the top. We were both amazed earlier in the week to find out we were actually work colleagues. We must have passed eachother countless times without knowing at work. We kept giving each other a railway high five on the mountain, it was only right we should celebrate together at the summit.<br />
Eventually Adams and I retraced our route to Stella Point, passing and congratulating other members of the group who were on their way to the summit. After a short break we descended. This was tough,I had used everything I had to get to the top, I was spent. The loose scree allowed gravity to take us down, running downhill part of the way, even that was too much. I needed to stop for several rests, eventually, wearily I made it to camp. So shattered was I, I couldn't eat anything. I slept a while.Once all of our group were back we made a slow walk to our final camp site. Millenium camp site. It was a 2 hour downhill walk. Everyone was tired but proud of our achievement. The last night was an early night, we'd earned it!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-66535512115087436332013-09-02T18:48:00.000+01:002013-09-02T18:48:48.643+01:00Kilimanjaro Challenge Day 6. 28th August 2013The walk today from Barranco Camp, to Barafu Camp was tough, real tough. I awoke feeling a million times better than yesterday. No headache or feeling rough, a good nights sleep had sorted me out. I left my tent and stared at the Barranco Wall for a moment. It did look a little intimidating. In truth, this is one of the parts of the trip which I was most concerned about before I left England.<br />
I'm no rock climber, I knew it wasn't a technical climb, it was going to be more of a scramble but I still felt a little uncomfortable. I went for breakfast. The great thing about the group I was a part of was that many of us were very similar. Certainly in our concerns, I was not alone in feeling uneasy about what was coming, and in actual fact after I'd talked it through with some of the others we were all less uneasy together.<br />
We set off slowly. It was hard work. Parts of it we could just walk steadily over the rocky surface. Other parts we had to pull ourselves over rocks, and small gaps. Steadily winding our way up to the top of the great wall. We stopped for breaks and I admired the views.<br />
Our incredible support team then began to fly past us. They had given us a head start while they packed away our camp. Then they all overtook us on the wall. I just can't put into words how awesome they are. There was me and my friends with our rucksacks taking our time over the tricky task, then our crew blast past us with heavy kit balanced on their heads. Just remarkable people.<br />
Finally I heaved myself to the top of the wall. What a rush! I was really pleased and relieved to have safely negotiated the wall and celebrated at the top.<br />
We then had to negotiate a steep descent and ascent in to Karranga Camp for lunch. This was shattering. The descent over loose ground was not helping my knees, but on the ascent the pain went from my knees and it was just a tiring slog to the lunch stop. <br />
After lunch we took a long steep ascent very slowly to Barafu Camp-Base camp for the summit push. I had tried not to think of the summit attempt later on, but gradually it came into my head, I feel I did do a reasonable job in pushing it out of my head. I still had to focus on the walk to base camp. I knew thinking too far ahead would not be wise. 'One step at a time, lets just get to camp first' I said to myself.<br />
We arrived into the rocky Barafu camp late afternoon.<br />
Dinner that night was tense. Everyone was talking about the summit attempt. Nerves were building, apprehension, panic. I sat with Jen and Jo at dinner. We were all nervous about the summit attempt. I gave the pair of them a motivational pep talk which they said they found really good. It made me feel good too. Somewhere inside of me the determination that I would be banking on later was pushing itself to the fore and getting me set for what was going to be the most challenging night of my life.<br />
Dean said we would be woken at 11pm, have a hot drink and snack at 11.30pm and start going for the summit at midnight.<br />
I went back to my tent. Andy and I laid out all the clothes we would be wearing later then went to sleep around 8.30pm. Soon enough I was woken by one of the guides. I dressed myself. It was bitter cold,I layered up. I wore a pair of thermal longjohns my heavy duty fleece lined trekking trousers and waterproof trousers over the top. Two pairs of socks. My base layer long sleeve shirt, t-shirt, fleece, my heavy down jacket, my GRWE T-shirt which I was given, so that hopefully I could get a photo wearing it at the summit, and finally my waterproof coat. I also had my trusty West Ham fleece hat, and two pairs of gloves.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-30782876209745096552013-09-02T18:47:00.000+01:002013-09-02T18:47:13.838+01:00Kilimanjaro Challenge. Day 5 27th August 2013Today was our acclimatisation day. We would finish up only about 100 meters higher in Barranco Camp than our start from Shira Camp, however we would be walking to Lava Tower for lunch, gaining almost 700 meters in height.<br />
We left camp at 8 and slowly climbed a dusty track. Today was a long walk, but it was good preparation for summit night and allowing our bodies to acclimatise to the altitude. We walked at a slow but steady pace. I had by now found a good rhythm in my walking. I always tried to stay towards the middle of the group. The pace at the front I usually found a little fast and it suited me to take my time in the middle.<br />
Around 90 minutes into the walk, one of the assistant guides, Moses came up to me and asked how I was. I replied I was good, yesterday was tough, but I'm here for day 3. He said 'Good, you look very strong today. Keep drinking, and pole pole' Pole pole is Swahili for Slowly slowly. It is the motto of Kilimanjaro.<br />
I was also used to the amount of water we needed to drink each day by now. On average I was drinking between 4 to 5 litres a day. We would always set off from camp with full water containers. My camelback/hydrarion pack was ideal as I could just sip water on the move, I tended to drink from my flasks on our breaks, we usually were able to refill water at lunch.<br />
As we gained altitude towards Lava Tower, I started to feel a headache coming on. 'Oh no acute mountain sickness!' I got a bit worried, I was taking Diamox, what was this all about? It was a steady pressure like pain on my head. It wasn't excruciating but it was irritating.<br />
I talked to my fellow trekkers and other people were experiencing the same. I slowed down and kept drinking water. I resisted the urge to take paracetamol and just tried to ride it out. We approached the impressive lava tower and had lunch. Our crew had raced ahead of us setting up our mess tent. When we sat down to eat, it was clear that the majority of the group were feeling ropey. Dean asked everyone to say how they were feeling. Pretty much all of us said we had a headache, some more severe than others, some people also felt sick. Dean and Amanda explained this was normal and nothing to be worried about and we should feel better later as we had a long descent to camp.<br />
The afternoon was tiring. We descended over rocky terrain. It was hard going. My head was hurting, my knees were giving off signals that they were finding the going tough. But I pressed on. I found myself becoming a little seperated from the group. I was in the middle somewhere. I was walking with Jo, and Jon. We, like everyone else were getting tired, and feeling the effects of the days work. I stopped to get a second wind, one of the guides caught up with me and paced me into camp. Very slowly now I plodded on, just wanting a hot drink and a nice rest. Eventually I made it in to camp, actually I had caught the lead group up and we all signed in to camp together.<br />
We enjoyed a lovely Spag Bol dinner. I got a good look afterwards at the awesome Barranco Wall that towered above us, that would be our first challenge tomorrow. I lay in bed thinking of the Barranco wall. It did look like it was going to be hard work, my head had cleared by now and I fell asleep feeling proud that I'd really dug in today.<span id="goog_1127544514"></span><br />
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<span id="goog_1127544513"></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-57575764573913326762013-09-02T18:46:00.000+01:002013-09-02T18:46:48.811+01:00Kilimanjaro Challenge Day 4. 26th August 2013Today we would walk 7 km from Machame Camp to Shira camp. We set off after breakfast around 8.15 on very steep moorland terrain. Very early in to the walk, I could tell it was going to be a very challenging day. The altitude was already making me breath hard and I could feel I was working hard. I tried not to look up too much to where we were going as it seemed the path was taking us up into outer space, it was very high up. When I did stop looking at where I was putting my feet I was greeted by just the most incredible views. This was why I was here! You don't get these sort of views in England.<br />
Throughout the day I went through phases of being out of breath and feeling that I was quite out of my depth here and wondering what I was doing, to feeling that it was a real pleasure to be here and how much I was enjoying it.<br />
On occasions when I did find it hard going, I just took a moment to myself to remind myself of why I was here. I was here for an amazing experience that I had trained for. I was here because many people had put their faith in me by sponsoring me in order that I could help Greyhound Rescue West of England. Strong motivation, and it would not be the last time during the trip that, I would think this.<br />
We finally made it into camp mid afternoon for lunch. We were served a delicious leek soup followed by pasta and salad. We were being treated very well, in the middle of nowhere.<br />
After lunch a few of us went on a short walk of around 2 hours out of camp and uphill with some of the guides and Amanda, where we got some amazing views of the mountain. We passed a helipad which was used for emergency evacuations. This brought the concept of acute mountain sickness back into my thinking. So far I had felt good, I was taking diamox and the altitude had not affected me. I hoped that would remain the case for the duration of the trip.<br />
We made our way back to camp, where the others had been resting, and had dinner. Vegetable soup and beef stroganoff.<br />
I seemed to find sleeping tonight a little harder, it was certainly cooler the ground a little harder, but eventually I drifted off to sleep.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-43072111856596986372013-09-02T18:45:00.000+01:002013-09-02T18:45:58.824+01:00Kilimanjaro Challenge. Day 3. 25th August 2013I woke fairly early after a good nights sleep. Today it would begin. All the training was about to be put to the test. I was really looking forward to it. After a good cooked breakfast and my last hot shower for a week, I climbed the bus and we went to the Machame gate. The nervousness in the bus was eased by a couple of the guys at the back of the bus cracking truly lame jokes, but we all laughed anyway.<br />
On arrival at the gate after we had all signed the register we were introduced to some of the team who would help us. We saw Godfrey again, and our assistant guides introduced themselves, as did our chef, some of our porters and our 'ambulance' I was amazed by how many people would be with us, there would be nearly 100 members of the team on top of the 25 of us trekkers, and Dean and Amanda as <br />
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well. It was like an army who were going on this big adventure together.<br />
After a hot drink we were off. Andy and I shook hands at the start and wished each other luck. We then followed Jackson who was going to be our pacemaker for the trip. He set us off very slowly. We eventually all filed into a line and headed up into the rainforest behind him.<br />
I was taking it all in. I had watched so many videos on you tube about the trail and here I was actually now walking it, it just seemed surreal. Soon our team of porters went passed us with bags and equipment. I was in awe of these guys powering ahead of us to our first camp.<br />
We had a surprise a few hours in, turning the corner to find a large table laid for us with lunch. We could not believe it, but settled down to sandwiches, crisps juice and fruit. Eating in the middle of a forest was just incredible.<br />
After lunch the track got steeper as we plodded on through the rainforest. I felt that I was managing ok. I was drifting towards the middle of the group and felt comfortable. We were all still getting to know each other and time passed quickly talking to other members of the group and hearing their stories.<br />
We were a group of different people with the same ambition, to reach Uhuru peak for different reasons.<br />
At around 5pm I spotted tents as we emerged onto moorland just on the fringe of the rainforest. Our first camp was ahead. We could hear singing, as we entered Machame Camp we were greeted by our team who welcomed us by singing. It was a real party atmosphere and was truly amazing.<br />
We found our tents then had a snack in our mess tent. Popcorn and coffee. We later had a fish supper before Dean briefed us on the next days walk.<br />
My first night under canvas was good. This had been the first time I had slept in a tent since I was in the cubs, many moons ago. The temperature dropped but my sleeping bag kept me warm through the night. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-24973654717844541642013-09-02T18:44:00.000+01:002013-09-02T18:44:02.001+01:00Kilimanjaro Challenge Day 2. 24th August 2013The sun was just rising as we landed in Nairobi Kenya. I walked down the steps of the aircraft and set foot on the continent of Africa for the first time.<br />
The airport had been gutted by fire a few weeks ago and much of the buildings were replaced by temporary tents. We passed through the airport to a tent and waited there for our flight to Kilimanjaro. I was fairly tired still and dozed, between talking to other members of the group.<br />
Soon we were on our flight to Tanzania and in the air. The flight was not a long one, we passed Kilimanjaro. I was on the wrong side of the aircraft to get a great view however I leaned over to look out of the window and saw the mountain that I had come to climb for the first time. Woah was it impressive,I could feel the excitement build again.<br />
We arrived into Kilimanjaro International Airport, and after collecting our bags we went outside where our head guide, Godfrey and some of his team were waiting. He struck me straight away as a kind, decent chap. We loaded our bags onto two busses and then got on the busses to our hotel.<br />
I sat towards the back and looked out of the windows to the side, the rear window and ahead out of the windscreen, trying to take everything in along the way to our hotel, the AMEG lodge in Moshi. I guess it was just under an hour drive before we arrived.<br />
The rooms were allocated, Andy and I would room together. We freshened up then got some lunch from the buffet. After lunch Dean briefed us on what would happen the following day and then showed us what we should take in our kit bags.<br />
We were asked to try and get the weight of our bags to between 12 and 14 Kilo's, I thought this would be a tough task considering I struggled to get the bag to 15 kilo's but eventually I got the weight to 13kilo's<br />
The rest of the afternoon I talked with other members of the group and the football fans amongst us got up to date with the football scores back home.<br />
Andy and I made our way to the bar and tried Kilimanjaro beer. The rest of the group slowly joined us and we had a good laugh whilst waiting for dinner.<br />
Later that night in bed I lay thinking of what was ahead of me, the challenge of a lifetime,Kilimanjaro.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-22403367394059771972013-09-02T18:42:00.000+01:002013-09-02T18:42:33.489+01:00Kilimanjaro Challenge Day 1 23rd August 2013Here we go then. An idea that hatched over 8 months ago was about to become a reality.<br />
I had been seriously nervous in the past few days,questioning myself, and what I was doing. At the same time though I was very excited. I was heading for an experience like no other I had been through in my life. More so I was doing it to help Greyhound Rescue West of England, and the hounds that they look after.<br />
I was about to take myself way out of my comfort zone. Only good things could come from this, I knew that, but the nerves were still there.<br />
I had received so many good luck messages from not only my friends,family and GRWE volunteers. But also from people who could see what I was attempting in order to help these wonderful dogs. It filled me with so much pride, and I knew that thinking of all the positive messages would spur me on throughout my adventure.<br />
I had somehow managed a good nights sleep and woke around 8am. No rush today, so I went back to sleep till 9 then got up. I spent the morning rechecking my kit bags and then listened to music to try and relax.<br />
At 1pm I left for the airport. My father kindly gave me a lift to Heathrow. It was a 2 hour journey. We didn't really talk much about the trip. I think my father could sense I was nervous and so we dodged the whole subject.<br />
I said my goodbyes to my father at the drop off point at terminal 4. I made my way very slowly to the terminal entrance. I have travelled by myself before,so I wasn't nervous about that. Something, oh about nineteen thousand feet high was giving me the jitters.<br />
As I walked in to the terminal I was looking for a coffee bar. I was around 2 hours early for the time I was supposed to meet the Action Challenge team and my fellow climbers. To my surprise someone walked past me enquiring 'Action Challenge?' pointing at my big red and black holdall with Action Challenge emblazoned on the side. Taken aback I looked at the man, and replied 'yes' The man shook my hand and introduced himself as Dean, the leader of my trip.<br />
We walked together to the Kenya Airways check in zone and talked. I felt much less nervous now and more relaxed. Dean went for some food so I guarded his bag and my own until he returned. In the meantime more of the group arrived and we introduced ourselves and chatted briefly. Excitement and apprehension summed all of us up well I think.<br />
Dean arranged to meet us at our gate 30 minutes prior to our boarding time. So we checked in and went through security and all did our own things. I went and found a cafe and enjoyed a latte and a breakfast ciabatta .It was possibly then, that I really got into the adventure spirit. I'm here because I want to be here. I've trained hard for this,and I'm ready for it. I'm going to enjoy as much of it as I can, and gut it out when I need to, to realise my dream of standing at the top of Mount Kilimanjaro.<br />
I got to the departure gate around 5pm and was talking to Dave,Grady,Alice and Jack. We seemed to have had the same issues packing and the same mix of nerves and excitement. Dave and I had also trained very similarly.<br />
Dean gathered our group of 25 and introduced us to our trip doctor,Amanda. Dean explained we would get a full brief when we got to our hotel in Tanzania, but today was just a case of actually getting there. I boarded the 2000 Kenya Airways flight to Nairobi and found my seat in the middle row. I had an aisle seat,an empty seat to my right, and a fellow group member Andy had the other seat in the row.<br />
Andy and I hit it off straight away, we share a passion for football and beer. We talked for a while and then tried unsuccessfully to get much sleep before landing in Nairobi.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-42093076119918025612013-08-20T20:49:00.001+01:002013-08-20T20:56:15.963+01:00Just Days From Kilimanjaro.I set an event countdown on my phone weeks and weeks ago. A check on it now, informs me that my flight to Nairobi takes off in 2 Days 23 hours 9 minutes! I can be honest and say that I do feel ready for it. I am very excited and very nervous but I am looking forward to it.<br />
I finished my training last Friday. I went for a short run. I felt like I had come full circle. I can clearly remember starting my training last December with a walk in the pouring rain, and there I was, one day in August out in the pouring rain.<br />
That short run brought the curtain down on eight months of hard work. I feel very proud looking back on it all, seeing for myself just how far I have come. I also take confidence and pride from the fact that in my heart I know I have given it everything I have got to be ready, and I can go to Africa knowing that I could not have done anything more or tried any harder. I feel fit, I feel healthy and I feel as ready as I will ever be.<br />
After concluding my training I have tried to take it easy over my final week, and save my energy. It's hard to ignore the feeling inside that I should be doing something. Running, walking, going to the Gym. But I have resisted the urge and not felt too guilty,<br />
Yesterday I trialled Diamox tabletS, or to give them their official name,Acetazolomide. I have done my research on these and spent months trying to decide if I would use them or not. Basically they help someone to acclimatise to altitude. I got them on a prescription from my Doctor, They can cause a few side effects but on balance once I sat down and thought about it, the idea of not reaching the summit because I got accute Mountain sickness and didn't take these tablets, well, I think I would be heartbroken and would kick myself forever and a day. I will start taking them the day before I begin the climb, but I took a dose yesterday to make sure I was not allergic to it.<br />
Apart from a bit of a thick head I did not really have any problems, so I hope that is the case when I have to take them for a week.<br />
I have to start taking my anti-malaria tablets on Thursday, with paracetamol and Ibuprofen in my kit bag I could well rattle all the way to Uhuru Peak.<br />
Today I packed my kit away into my kit bag. It took quite an effort and several attempts but I got there in the end. I can now forget about it until I get to Tanzania. My Kit bag weighs 18KG which is fine for the aeroplane, but I need to get the weight down to 15KG for the mountain. I'm optimistic I can do that, as there are few items I will be leaving at the hotel.<br />
Ever wonder what you need to take on a 10 day trip to the highest freestanding mountain in the world? Here goes:-<br />
A pair of boots,<br />
A pair of trainers<br />
Trekking Gaiters-These wrap around your lower leg/ankles to stop scree getting in your boots<br />
3 pairs of walking socks,3 pairs of liner socks to avoid blisters<br />
1 pair of extra thick walking socks<br />
A waterproof jacket<br />
Waterproof trousers<br />
Heavyweight trekking trousers (for the last push to the top in cold temperatures)<br />
Lightweight trekking trousers<br />
A Down Jacket<br />
2 Micro Fleece tops<br />
3 Trekking T-Shirts<br />
Thermal underwear and base layer tops<br />
A pair of windstopper gloves<br />
Thick pair of waterproof gloves<br />
Pair of fleecy Mitts<br />
Fleece Hat<br />
Bandana or Buff<br />
Wide Brimmed hat<br />
Casual clothes (for the hotel)<br />
Tracksuit bottoms for the campsites<br />
Swimming trunks (for the inevitable morning by/in the pool when we get off the mountain)<br />
100 litre duffel bag<br />
35 litre rucksack<br />
Sleeping Bag<br />
3 Litre hydration pack/camelback and 2x1 litre bottles<br />
Head Torch with spare batteries<br />
Sun Glasses<br />
Sleeping Bag Liner<br />
Sleeping mat<br />
Camera/Video camera with spare batteries/memory cards<br />
Snacks for 6/7 days (I have used trail mix bars whilst training so taking them and jelly babies)<br />
Travel Pillow<br />
Travel Towel<br />
Trekking Poles<br />
Ear Plugs<br />
2 sets of chemical handwarmers for summit day<br />
Anti bacterial hand gel<br />
Toilet roll<br />
Sun Screen,After Sun and lip balm<br />
Wet wipes<br />
Toothbrush and toothpaste<br />
Insect repellent<br />
Soap<br />
Pain relief<br />
Malaria tablets<br />
Antihistamines<br />
Zinc tape or blister plasters ( I prefer tape..get me sounding like a pro)<br />
Rehydration Powder (you put this in your drink if you are starting to struggle)<br />
Imodium (Hopefully wont need this)<br />
Antiseptic wipes<br />
Throat Lozenges<br />
Deep Heat<br />
Knee supports (I wear them to protect my knees a little)<br />
Vaseline (Again blister prevention)<br />
Talcum Powder<br />
Diamox<br />
Pee bottle (Not sure on if I will use this yet, I shall see how I go There will be a toilet at each camp, but it is an option for use in the middle of the night to save leaving the tent.)<br />
As you can see its quite a list, and I have worked my way through getting it all, over the months.<br />
Now that I am all packed, all I have to do is wait for the adventure to begin on Friday.<br />
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The photo shows my red holdall full with the above list, my rucksack on the left, my hat,coat and trusty boots<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-42341094739244672882013-07-29T20:13:00.001+01:002013-07-29T20:13:18.919+01:00T Minus 25 days and counting!25 Days! That's all I have left to wait now! In 25 days I will be at Heathrow Airport ready to go to Africa. I have been pushing myself really hard over the last couple of weeks. Most of my work has been on my strength and fitness. The unusual but very welcome Sunshine and high temperatures have not really stopped me. On cool days I have been out running, mainly up and down hills to increase my leg strength and my overall fitness. There have been days where I have timed my runs well to get home just as the temperature rises.<br />
On really warm days I have sought refuge in an air conditioned Gym. Putting the miles in on the treadmill and exercise bike, and then doing some weight training. I am happy with the level of fitness I have now. It's really comforting and encouraging to see my improved performances on my runs.<br />
My kit list is almost checked off. The last one or two things I will have very shortly. I will then have the task of packing it. The weight limit for my holdall will be 20KG on the aeroplane. But, it will be a maximum of 15KG when I get to Kilimanjaro. At the moment I seem to be comfortably under the 15kg limit, even though I still have things to pack I don't think weight will be the problem, its room. My first couple of attempts to pack have been quite comical. The bag seems ready to burst at the seems. I am sure it will be fine, I keep telling myself.<br />
The nerves and the excitement are really building now. Part of me can't wait to get cracking, the other part can wait. I still can't quite believe what I am doing, and how far I have come in the last 8 months. It might sound like a cliche but I have learnt so much about myself while I have been training. I have discovered a real enthusiasm for walking. I have also discovered a real self motivation and self determination. All those horrible winter days, the thought of not going for a walk because it was too cold never entered my head. There have been days when I have found training hard, but I have always had one not so secret weapon to drive me on. I just remind myself exactly why I am doing this. It is all to help a fantastic cause-Greyhound Rescue West of England.<br />
I had the pleasure a few weeks ago of attending a GRWE fun dog show. I got to meet many of the volunteers who give so much of their time and effort to helping these amazing dogs. I also got to meet lots of GRWE dogs looking for homes. It's these dogs that all the sponsorship money that I have raised is going to help.<br />
All of the support I have had so far to raise a stunning amount for GRWE makes me feel very proud. The good wishes and moral support I have been given is just amazing. For that, to everyone who has been backing me I offer my heartfelt thanks.<br />
The last few weeks, I plan to make as stress free as possible. I aim to finish all my training a week prior to going. I have taken advice on this and getting a good weeks rest before it's 'Go time' seems to be highly recommended. If I do anything in the last week, it will only be a light bit of jogging to stay loose.<br />
It seems like only yesterday that I stumbled across that video on youtube of the celebrities making their journey to the Summit of Kilimanjaro. In just a few short weeks I will be following in their footsteps. I don't expect it will be a walk in the park. I know it will be the toughest thing I have ever done in my life. But I am ready, and I am looking forward to the challenge.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-19315327430924829362013-07-10T22:54:00.003+01:002013-07-10T22:54:29.221+01:00Brecon BeaconsToday, I went to Brecon Beacons to test myself on the highest point in South Wales. I only decided last night that today was the day for it. I left home just after 6am and made the 3 hour drive to Cwmgwdi, which is just outside of Brecon. After parking my car I hit the trail. It was already hot at 9.15 am, I knew that today was going to be a real test for me. The combination of the hard trail and the weather would be a challenge.<br />
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I set off for the ridge, I appeared to be the only person on the trail. It was a steady climb over pretty good terrain. I had learnt from my recent Ben Nevis experience about the importance of taking rests. So a couple of times I stopped just to gather myself and take on some water.<br />
My rucksack today was fully loaded. I had my hydration pack in my rucksack, filled with 2 litres of water. The hydration pack is a clever device. Simply put its a big bag which you fill with water and place in your rucksack. There is a tube attached to the bag which you draw water from. It saves you having to reach for water bottles. I did have two one litre bottles full with water as well. Also in my rucksack were my trusty waterproof trousers and jacket..(just in case) a pack lunch and sun block completed the pack.<br />
As I pushed on and reached the ridge I was really impressed. The views were amazing. I could see for miles.<br />
I began to search for my target..Pen y Fan. The summit of Pen y Fan is 886 meters. It is the highest peak in the Brecon Beacons and in fact, the highest point in South Wales. It did not take me long to find it, towering in the distance. I kept a good pace over the ridge heading towards it and began my ascent.<br />
I was feeling really motivated to get to the top, failure just was not an option. As I got to the last part it was incredibly steep. I refused to be intimidated by it though. I took a rest break at the foot of the last part of it. I took my rucksack off, dropped my walking poles on the ground and just tried to relax and concentrate on what I wanted to do. After about five minutes I got myself prepared to go for it. I watched as a small group made their way up ahead of me. I waited to give them space, so that we would not be in each others way, and then I started moving.<br />
The terrain under foot was rock, it was not bad and gave me good grip. As I got further up, and closer to the top I realised my walking poles would not help. I would have to use my hands to help me scramble to the top. In the heat it was a difficult task. It was energy sapping, but I was so determined to reach the top, and too scared to look back and retrace my steps I think. Finally..I scrambled up to the peak.<br />
I was ecstatic to reach the top. I threw my rucksack down and punched the air. I took a moment to look down at where I had come from and I enjoyed the same feeling that I experienced at Ben Nevis, pride and elation.<br />
I took a well earned rest and had something to eat, then I scanned the horizon..I wasn't finished yet. Soon I saw what I was looking for,over to my right. Corn Du is Pen y Fan's slightly shorter neighbour standing at 873 meters. Within 10 minutes I was celebrating a double summit and looking up at Pen y Fan from the top of Corn Du.<br />
After I had enjoyed the success and the spectacular views I began my descent back down the ridge to my car. It was scorching hot now, I was glad to be going down not up. I passed a few people making their ascent and wished them luck. Eventually I reached the foot of the ridge and finished my lunch sat next to my car. It had taken me just over 5 hours to do the 7 and a half mile route.<br />
I made my way home, thankfully missing any big traffic jams and arrived home around 5.30pm. It had been a long day, but one that I was very pleased with. It's just over 6 weeks until I go to Kilimanjaro, the excitement is building inside me, but now so is the momentum.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-79167567451478567282013-06-25T11:40:00.004+01:002013-06-25T11:40:53.239+01:00Ben NevisOn Thursday 20th June I set off Northwards for what would be my toughest challenge yet...Climbing the highest mountain in the United Kingdom,standing at 1344 Meters(4,409ft)...Ben Nevis. I had planned the trip sometime ago. It had bothered me that I had not reached the top of Mount Snowdon a few months ago due to the poor weather, so I decided that I would try Ben Nevis and hope for better weather. I decided to drive to Scotland but would stop in Preston overnight on the way up to break the journey. I checked in to a hotel just off the motorway and spent the night there.<br />
The following morning I began the long drive north of the border. The farthest north I think I have previously been is the Lake District, so once I eventually passed signs to the lakes I was in new territory. Once I finally got off the motorway I enjoyed driving through stunning scenery and was constantly amazed by how beautiful the countryside was. Several times I felt I had to stop the car and take some photo's and just take everything in. I arrived into my bed and breakfast in Corpach, which is just outside Fort William in the late afternoon. I had a nice view of Loch Linhe and endless mountains.<br />
I had booked to go with a guide up Ben Nevis on Sunday, so I had a free day to explore on the Saturday. I decided I wanted to do a little walking to just get myself ready for the next day, but at the same time I did not want to overdo things. I found a car park just outside of Glencoe with a path leading up to the mountains.<br />
I decided I would walk no more than 90 minutes up the mountain and then turn around and go back to the car. The weather was not brilliant, it was raining, but it did not spoil my enjoyment. I had to pinch myself. Here I was,walking in the Highlands. It has always looked nice on any tv programme or film I have watched, but being there was something special.<br />
That night, my thoughts turned to Ben Nevis. I was very excited, but self doubt began to creep in. Could I make it to the top? Had I trained hard enough for it? Was I ready? I reassured myself that I was capable of doing it, and I tried to imagine being at the top. Ultimately I knew that one way or another all the questions would be answered the next morning.<br />
I met my guide,Peter at 8.45 at the Ben Nevis Inn. There were another 6 people in the group, After we had introduced ourselves and made final checks to our kit, we were off. We set off in single file along a trail. We could not actually see Ben Nevis from the start. We had to use a trail to bring us on to it. Our guide paced us well and we did make rest stops. On the first part of the walk I noticed I was really hot even though it was a very overcast damp day. I had put too many layers on from the beginning,expecting it to be cold. I took off my raincoat and a t-shirt leaving me with just my baselayer shirt and felt much more comfortable. I only put all my layers back on very close to the top.<br />
The route began to climb and I could feel that I was working hard. I stayed towards the middle of the group and felt I was doing ok. After a while I found my rhythm,and just kept moving forwards. The terrain on the lower part of the climb was all small stones and rocks and steps. They were not too difficult. However I did think to myself it might be tricky on the way back down.<br />
After about two hours we reached the Red Burn. This is a waterfall where we could fill up our water bottles. Peter told us we were now halfway to the top. That made me feel really good. Ok so far it had not been a walk in the park, but I had managed it, and I was feeling fine. All of a sudden I had got some real self belief and I just knew I was going to reach the top. I kept telling myself that. The views of the valley below were stunning, but we could not see the top of Ben Nevis. The cloud was low and Peter believed, unless the weather changed we would not have much of a view at the top.<br />
As we pushed on higher the terrain took on an almost lunar like appearance. It was very dark rock, the mist had come in and it was very eerie. Our path zig zagged up the mountain and we made good progress. Peter said there were 9 zig zags to do to get to the plateau then the summit would be 1 kilometre from there. I was couting everytime we changed direction, getting closer and closer to the top.<br />
Before I knew it I heard Peter say five hundred meters to go. I was quite tired up to that point but it just gave me and the rest of the group a real boost. My lungs were filling up with air faster, my legs were lighter. I was going to make it. I felt so good. The final push took us over a little bit of snow. This did need some extra care as it was slippery under foot.<br />
The trig point and summit marker was a great sight to see. We reached this just after 1pm After we had congratulated each other and had our photo's taken, I took a moment to myself. I found a rock to sit on..as it turns out a freezing cold and damp one so I didn't sit for long. But I just looked up at the cloudy sky and let the accomplishment sink in. All the doubts had gone, all the questions had been answered. Yes I could reach the top of Ben Nevis, yes I had trained hard enough for it, and yes I had indeed been ready for it.<br />
After a brief while we began the long descent. We followed the same route. I was aware that it was much faster to go down. We did have to take care in places as it really was steep and some rain had fallen to make some of the stones quite slippery...as I found out. I lost my footing once, and somehow broke my fall with my rucksack and my little fingers of all things. Thankfully no broken bones but one finger got a small cut and the other ended up all bruised. Still it took my mind off my legs which had been aching.<br />
Eventually we reached the Ben Nevis Inn again. My car was a sight for sore eyes at 4.30 pm. Having said our goodbyes I got in my car and drove back to my Bed and Breakfast. Grinning from ear to ear the whole way I think.<br />
I enjoyed that evening in a local pub with some well deserved drinks and a nice meal. The following day I began the trip home. I had decided to drive the whole distance in one day. It took 11 hours with a couple of stops for refreshments and to stretch my legs.<br />
It really was a great weekend and a great experience and a timely morale booster with less than 9 weeks to go before I head to Africa.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-53694218343306896852013-06-05T00:37:00.005+01:002013-06-05T00:37:59.077+01:00High Altitude and the High CommisionWith not long to go I (11 weeks, eek!) I had to get the paperwork done. I decided rather than apply by post for my visa to enter the United Republic of Tanzania, that I would go to the Tanzania High commission in London and apply for it in person.The plan was to apply for my visa on the Monday and pick it up the following day. I arrived into London early by train and went to the Tanzania High commision to hand my application and passport in. I decided to stay in London overnight to avoid travelling back and forth and made a day of it Monday. The hotel I booked was right across the road from the Natural History and Science museums so I went for a visit around both of them, after I had spent Monday morning and lunch in Picadilly Circus.<br />
I had also booked an appointment at the Altitude centre in London for the Tuesday, for a consultation. After a leisurely Tuesday morning I made my way to the centre in central London. After a few tests of my blood pressure and lung capacity, I was given a high altitude test. This involved using an oxygen mask hooked up to a special machine. I breathed normally through the mask for five minutes. The machine was set up to simulate 5,500m above sea level. I then had to do the same thing with the machine set to 3500m above sea level.<br />
The results seemed quite encouraging. The oxygen levels in my blood were measured and it showed that my body did cope quite well with the increased altitude, and I was also able to recover quickly when the mask was removed.<br />
I was really pleased that I did the test. I have read up on the effects of altitude and it was a slight concern to me, the last thing anyone wants is to get unwell on a big mountain. But I feel a little bit more prepared for it now and hopefully I wont suffer too much at the high altitude.<br />
After my visit to the altitude centre I went back to the High commission where my passport with visa were waiting for me to collect. I then travelled back home with another thing on the list ticked off. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-61474058517844933272013-05-27T12:45:00.002+01:002013-05-27T12:51:56.706+01:00Another walking weekendBank Holiday weekend. 25th and 26th of May saw me out walking, and working hard at my training again. On the Saturday I revisited the Malverns. I was very impressed on my first visit and could not resist going again. My route this time was shorter than the first time, as I parked in British Camp car park. However I still climbed Black Hill,Jubilee Hill,Perseverance Hill, then on to Summer Hill and Worcestershire Beacon, and then retraced my route to my car. It was a beautiful day sunny, and dry. As I started early, it only started to get really hot as I was finishing. It struck me that I found the climbs a little easier than my first visit. I kept looking at the peak of the hill ahead of me, keeping my head up and powering up the hills with the help of my walking poles. The larger hills I walked more slowly but tried to keep a good rhythm. I was very pleased that I did not stop once on my way up any of the hills. I paused at the foot of each one, and at the top.<br />
It was a very good walk, and it was very useful in working my legs on big hills again.<br />
<br />
The following day I decided to go and try the newly opened North Dorset Trailway. It follows the old railway line from Blandford Forum to Sturminster Newton. I have to say it was excellent. A very good job has been done paving the route and putting up good signs. Its almost completely enclosed and away from the roads apart from having to cross one or two very small lanes. I made my mind up that I was going to walk all the way to Sturminster Newton and back to Blandford. At 9 miles each way it was going to be one of my longer walks. I set off mid afternoon, it was quite busy with other walkers, cyclists, and runners. The terrain was, very good. The first 3 miles to Stourpaine were paved, I then walked through the village onto the next part where I found more well surfaced paths. I ended up on the platform of Shillingstone station. There is a fantastic restoration project going on there. The station looks very impressive and appeared busy with visitors/ I walked by carrying on to Sturminster Newton. Once I reached the car park there I turned around and retraced my route to Blandford.<br />
I spotted Hambledon Hill off of the track rising above the countryside, that is an old Hill fort. I think I will be paying that a visit in the not too distant future. But it wouldn't be today.<br />
Throughout I kept a good pace, perhaps a little fast. I worked out I was walking at about 3 miles per hour. I could really feel that in my legs about 4 miles from Blandford. But I pressed on and reached my car around 7.30pm<br />
I am now getting more confident with my fitness and my ability to do long walks on consecutive days. I really feel like I am pushing on with my training and getting more and more prepared for the challenge of a lifetime which seems to be approaching very quickly now. The days and weeks just seem to be flying by. In addition to my training I am still working my way through my kit list. I now have all the clothing I need. All I really need now is a few more bits and pieces. Once I have everything I will list what I am taking with me.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-74931635839040816722013-05-14T13:17:00.001+01:002013-05-14T13:17:25.737+01:00SnowdoniaMy training moved up another gear over the weekend of May 10-12. Action Challenge,( The company who are taking me to Kilimanjaro) organised a training weekend in Snowdon, which I attended. I left home late morning on Friday the 12th heading for North Wales. I was very excited about this weekend. It was going to be a good opportunity for me to really test myself and measure my fitness. It would also be a good chance to walk as part of a group. Which is something I had not done, to date. And meet people doing the same thing as me.<br />
I made pretty good time and just needed to make one stop on the M5 for a break and something to eat. I arrived at the Youth Hostel in Nant Gwynant around 17.30. The last 50 miles or so of the drive were amazing, going through breathtaking scenery.<br />
I checked in and met the Guides who would be taking the weekend. I shared the room with 4 other guys. The room was a barracks type set up, with bunkbeds. I found a lower bunk and got myself sorted out and then got chatting to other people on the weekend. It was good to hear how other people were getting on with their training, and it made me feel good to know that my training was very similar. So I was, doing the right things.<br />
After a nice chilli con carne dinner, our lead guide explained what would happen over the weekend. The initial plan was to climb Mount Snowdon on Saturday. However, the weather forecast was very grim. Heavy rain, high wind, lightning, and low cloud. Our guide felt that those conditions would not be good to attempt to summit Snowdon. He had a back up route for us, which would involve going towards the summit but not quite to the top. A final decision would be taken in the morning as to what we would do.<br />
I did not get a great deal of sleep that night, being in a strange bed maybe, with a mix of excitement about the following day possibly.<br />
The next morning after breakfast we were told that we would not be going to the summit. I was a little disappointed on the one hand, but on the other hand it was the safe decision and I could fully understand that. We set off from Nant Gwynant to Pen-Y-Pass. We went off road and followed trails through absolutely stunning scenery through a big valley.<br />
There was a group of about 30 of us, with two guides, one at the front, one at the back. I remembered the advice my doctor gave me, for when I go to Kilimanjaro, about aiming to be the last person into camp, so, I decided to walk towards the rear of the group. Conditions were a little tricky, It was raining hard and conditions under foot were slippery, I ended up on my bottom several times. After a couple of hours and a steep climb, we reached a cafe for a very welcome latte, and lunch.<br />
We then set off up the Pyg Track. This, I found quite challenging in parts. It was a very steep climb over stone and rock steps. Some of the steps were so high I had to lift my legs almost knee high to climb up the next step. My walking poles really helped me here to keep my balance and take some of the load off of my legs. I was certainly working hard, but I felt that I was managing ok. I wasn't going to set any speed records, I just kept going nice and steady. I started off towards the middle of the group and again drifted towards the back.<br />
The sun did appear but briefly, The rain was very heavy and the wind in exposed areas was pretty strong. We eventually descended down a steep grass hill and on to the Miners Path and made it back to the cafe, for another latte. After which we followed our route back to the hostel in Nant Gwynant. It was a 9 hour day. It felt like we had walked 100 miles but it was actually only 10.<br />
I was tired by the end but I had really enjoyed the day. It had given me some real confidence. I was thinking if I could get through a tough day like that, I was doing well. <br />
After a cheeseburger dinner and a drink we sat down for a Kilimanjaro briefing. Our guide had climbed to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro 3 times already, so he knew what he was talking about. I listened intently to what he was saying, what it was going to be like, tips on what things to take in my kit bag. I thought to myself This is getting real now, and fast approaching. It was an exciting prospect,<br />
The next morning we set off after breakfast on a shorter walk. We took the Watkin Path, which was very close to our hostel. The plan was to just do a 4 hour walk, as the day before had been a long one. It was a steep climb in parts, but it was manageable. The rain soon arrived and lashed down on us. Our lead guide stopped us and explained about the need to take it very slowly on Kilimanjaro. A slow pace would help us acclimatise and give us a greater chance of reaching the top. He then led us for about 10 minutes at the pace we would be walking, all the way up Mount Kilimanjaro. It was really slow maybe a mile an hour pace. It was helpful to have the demonstration. I had been walking far to fast on my own during my training. Not a bad thing in terms of increasing my fitness. But, now I can practice with the sort of pace I need in Tanzania.<br />
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I left the hostel at about 12.30 having said my goodbyes and made my way home. A long 5 and a half hour drive in the pouring rain. No surprises that all I could think about was Mount Kilimanjaro. I did not reach the top of Snowdon, but now I was absolutely determined that I would reach the roof of Africa. But I am off to Ben Nevis in June for more training first. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-53582878380182901972013-04-28T14:41:00.001+01:002013-04-28T14:41:05.608+01:00Navigational Issues on Watership Down. On the 17th April I set out early to do a walk over Watership Down and the surrounding area. It was supposed to be a 15 mile walk. It ended up a little more than that. I parked up and got walking at 0730 following the Wayfarers Walk. It was a mix of grass tracks and lanes that took me over beautiful countryside through Oakley and Overton. I also walked by the source of the River Test. I followed the Test to a crossing point, where I underestimated the 'Infant river' and got my feet soaked.My dismay compounded by the next crossing point being under a few feet of water, I ended up retracing my route, getting my feet wet again and finding a way around it. Things started to go very wrong when I ended up on the downs. I followed the 'wayfarers walk' sign but somehow went off track. I had to rely on the gps on my mobile phone to find a way back to my car along busy roads. By the time I got back to the car it was 1730. I had originally thought the walk would take me 6 hours or so, so clearly I did more than 15 miles, I think it was probably closer to 20. I was pretty tired by the time I eventually got home, but quite pleased that I had gutted it out for 10 hours with just a short lunch break. Some days on Kilimanjaro I could be walking for 10 hours or more, so this turned out to be good practice. Thankfully, and perhaps reassuringly for my family and friends I will have guides on the Mountain, so my sense of direction will not be put to the test. <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-85991066112367168842013-04-09T18:15:00.002+01:002013-04-09T18:15:32.628+01:00A stroll in the Forest mixing History with training.Following my long walk in the Malverns I went for a 6 mile walk in the New Forest. I didn't want to overdo things but it is important that I start stringing long walks together, as that is what I have to do on Kilimanjaro.<br />
Besides it is now only about a month to go until I go to Mount Snowdon, so I have to keep working hard to be prepared for that. I picked a walk in the village of Godshill, which is close to Fordingbridge. The walk,known as Ashley Walk, goes by what was an RAF bombing range. During the second world war pilots from local New Forest airfields used the area for target practice. They even built a replica of a 'U-Boat pen', sadly that is now covered in earth, but It was a fascinating walk and I did see an old observation shelter.<br />
I was under the impression it would be a fairly flat walk, but I was wrong. There were several climbs to negotiate. The terrain under foot was good, either gravel tracks or heathland. The walk took me 2 hours and took me past some New Forest horses and cattle. They all watched as I marched by, but they must be so used to people they didn't really give me a second look.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-75467065510368059162013-04-07T20:21:00.003+01:002013-04-07T20:21:40.962+01:00Marching on the MalvernsToday I went up another gear in my training for Mount Kilimanjaro. I went to the Malvern Hills. I sent off from my house about 6am on the 110 mile drive reaching Swinyard car park at 8.45 am. (Just a brief coffee stop en route) So I made good time. I have never been to the Malverns before so I was excited, having done a little research I had an idea of what it would be like, but it was even more beautiful than I could have imagined. The plan was to walk from Swinyard Car park to the top of Worcestershire Beacon and back again sumiting the hills in between. It was a 12 mile route over 7 hills which took about 5 hours to complete. It was challenging but not overly difficult. Some of the hills were very steep, but my walking poles came into their own and I was powering up hills and carefully negotiating my way down the other side. I wanted to walk here so that I could practice going up high hills, the views along the way were absolutely awesome. There was a little snow on some of the hills, not fresh, I assume it was from a couple of weeks ago. It was a clear day today, a little cold, and a little windy at the top of Worcestershire Beacon. But ideal weather really.<br />
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I could see Worcestershire Beacon some way off in the distance while I was walking. The highest of the hills (1395feet), and it looked impressive. As I got closer to it I looked to the very top and pictured myself up there. Soon enough after a tough walk it seemed like I was on top of the world. The views were magnificent, and the feeling that I had accomplished what I wanted to for the day hit me. I found a bench to eat my lunch and rest for a little while before retracing my route to Swinyard Car park. <br />
<br />I left at just after 2pm arriving home at just after 4.30pm. Picking a Sunday was a good idea I think. There wasn't much traffic on the roads.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-24204654751572717852013-04-05T20:46:00.004+01:002013-04-05T20:46:40.097+01:00Useful linksAs I mentioned in a previous post, I am climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in August to raise money for Greyhound Rescue West of England. They do a truly wonderful job in rescuing and re-homing Greyhounds and Lurchers. They are a charity which relies solely on donations. To find out more about them <a href="http://www.grwe.com/">You can visit their website here</a><br />
If you would like to sponsor me <a href="http://www.justgiving.com/gareth-bishop1">Here is a link to my sponsorship page</a> Thankyou.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-9102614271282688042013-03-29T17:39:00.002+00:002013-03-29T19:30:21.507+00:00The longest walk yetFor a while I had been thinking of doing a really long walk. I have to get used to walking for many hours as that is what I will be doing on Mount Kilimanjaro. Recently I found 'the long walk' whilst searching on the Internet. I completed a 16 mile walk today, I walked the 'Castleman Trailway' It is part of the disused Southampton to Dorchester railway line which was closed down in the 1960's. The route took me from Ringwood to Poole. The terrain was pretty good, and it was flat. Today that was perfect. Although I do need to walk on big hills I think 16 miles over fairly flat terrain was ideal really. Today was more about getting used to walking for a long time both physically and mentally.<br />
I found it very enjoyable.The weather was ideal for it. No rain, not too cold. There seemed to be lots of people out with their dogs, I would run into clusters of people near residential areas, but as I pushed on, quite a lot of the time I found myself the only person on the trailway. A long way from home, just me, and my thoughts.The miles just seemed to fly by as I enjoyed my walk through woodland and heathland.<br />
As I went through Wimborne Minster, and with about 4 miles to go I did start to labour. My pace dropped and my legs began to ache. I started to think should I stop now? After all, 12 miles is nothing to be ashamed of and a lot further than I have walked before. But what about the last 4 miles? I then thought, what if I start thinking like this in Africa? There will be no turning around on that mountain until I have reached the top. I refuse to do that, so today would be no different. I might have some aches tomorrow, but 'I WILL NOT GIVE UP!' I told myself. I plodded on and did make it to Upton Country Park, the finish line. The sense of satisfaction and pride I felt, having completed what I set out to do made me forget about my aches.<br />
I feel like it was a very successful exercise, I pushed myself further than before physically, and when the doubts entered my head I pushed them away and achieved my goal.<br />
It took me 5 and a half hours to complete the walk.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-73588303525363258262013-03-22T11:18:00.000+00:002013-03-29T17:40:37.578+00:00Rest and workI took myself off to Barbados for a week at the end of February/beginning of March. I'd organised that long before I planned my trip to Kilimanjaro. It was good to recharge the batteries in some warm weather. Although if I said I relaxed on the beach the whole time and did nothing but rest that would not be true. I did make use of the gym in the hotel daily, and enjoyed a couple of early morning runs along the beach, but yes, I did get plenty of rest too.<br />
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I came home refreshed physically and even more determined mentally to crack on and get myself ready for the challenge of my life.<br />
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I visited Lulworth Cove again and retraced my route from my first training walk there. This time there was a real difference. I found the walk so much easier than before. I could feel that all the hard work I've been putting in, is actually making a difference. I am moving in the right direction..the direction of Mount Kilimanjaro.<br />
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I also went to Badbury Rings one afternoon. That is just outside of Wimborne Minster in Dorset. It is the remains of an Iron age hill fort. It's a nice walk up and down some gentle hills and a couple of large ones. But it is set in 'rings' so you can walk any way around it that you like.<br />
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In addition to this I have spent time at the gym working out. Generally my workouts last around 45 minutes to an hour. I start on the treadmill and run for 10 minutes at a pace which will just get me warmed up and my heart beating a little faster before I move on to the weights. The gym I use has a variety of equipment and I make sure I use each piece during my workout. I do 30 repetitions on each piece of equipment. 3 lots of 10,with a drink of water and a slight pause between each batch. I then get on to the rowing machine and burn off any energy I have left with a fast 750 meters. I say fast...Sir Steve Redgrave probably would not be unduly worried about me becoming a 6 time Olympic Gold medalist. <br />
I then finish with the exercise bike very easy for 5 to 10 minutes just to warm down. <br />
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If I can't get out for a really long walk, and I can't get out to the gym, you'll find me out running. How far I run depends on how I feel at the time. Its a minimum of just over 2 miles and sometimes I will go to around 5 miles. I do find running as well as walking is excellent thinking time. I often try to picture what my journey up the mountain is going to be like, and reaching the summit. Just about 5 months until I find out.<br />
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I hope as we are now about to enter Spring, that the weather will improve. I don't mind walking in the rain or the cold but a walk in the sunshine would be very nice now and again. <br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-57883995461111211212013-02-20T14:31:00.002+00:002013-02-20T14:43:36.599+00:00January to February 2013.After I signed up to the challenge of a lifetime. I got to work. August seemed a long way away, but I didn't want to leave anything to chance. Training I decided, started now. I began walking, Just small walks to start with, a couple of miles in a day, three times a week. I didn't want to go to far, too quickly. The other thing that I needed to do was start getting my kit together for my adventure. Action Challenge sent me a kit list. I began going through it all. The first thing I had to do was get myself a good pair of walking boots. The sooner I got them and broke them in the better. I went to a local outdoor specialist store and tried on several pairs before deciding on a good pair, with a member of staffs advice that they would be a good boot for Kilimanjaro.<br />
There is a lot of kit to get,to scale Africa's highest mountain. Steadily I have worked my way through a large part of the list and am starting to look the part when I am out on my training walks.<br />
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Moving in to February, I am comfortable with 7 to 8 mile walks. I try to do one or two of those a week, and some smaller walks with one, or two gym sessions a week. Much depends on my work. I work shifts so I have to fit my training in around that.<br />
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My most challenging walk to date was on 16th February. I walked from Lulworth Cove to White Nothe. Challenging, but beautiful Dorset coastline. Its a good 7 miles over steep hills. It took me just under four hours to do it, with hindsight that was a little fast, especially towards the end I was tired, but elated that I had accomplished what I wanted to do. I have no doubt that I will be going there again several times before I leave for Africa. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13876948483640441445noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-565095508326825039.post-43564802597042207672013-02-20T14:02:00.000+00:002013-02-20T14:49:22.585+00:00How and Why am I doing this? Before I start, I must say I am not a professional climber, or mountaineer, I have never done anything like this in my life. 'First time for everything'<br />
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It started in December 2012. I was using the internet on my laptop. I was on youtube. I forget what I was searching for but Kilimanjaro came up as a suggestion. Intrigued I clicked on it, and brought up a series of films about climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. I settled on watching a charity climb done by several celebrities a few years ago. After watching that something inside me was telling me. 'You have to do this'.<br />
I spent a few weeks researching it, and thinking about it, and finally decided that yes I did have to do this, yes I wanted to do this. <br />
On 10th January 2013 I committed myself to going, and signed up with Action Challenge to climb the Machame route of Mount Kilimanjaro, a 10 day trip leaving for Tanzania on 23rd August. I was excited, proud, and nervous when I received an email from Action Challenge confirming my place on the trip.<br />
I had decided that I would do what the celebrities did in that film and climb for charity. Picking the charity to fund raise for was very easy. I decided that I would climb for Greyhound Rescue West of England (GRWE). I have a Greyhound adopted from them called Kelly, and another rescue dog, a Lurcher called Stuart. GRWE rescue and re home, both, Greyhounds and Lurchers. It is a charity which is completely reliant on donations. I decided I would like to help them.<br />
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