One Week to Go! Last few days before climbing in the Alps and Summiting Mont Blanc.
It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves - Edmund Hilary
The excitement, nerves, and anticipation are upon me. This time next week, I hope to be standing on top of the highest point in Western Europe, the summit of Mont Blanc, rising 4,808 m (15,774 ft) above sea level. The last few weeks have been focused on conditioning training, mental preparation and equipment checks. This is the culmination of plenty of running, bicycle rides and hill walks, in the countryside of England and mountains of Wales. All intertwined with final logistical preparations, which have been testing during the ongoing pandemic.
I am raising money for five good causes and would appreciate if you can find time to make a donation via my VirginGiving site this week. All have very specific aims and provide support to a great many people. I was reminded recently, not to under estimate the impact of the money being raised! It’s so important and it really does make a difference; today, tomorrow and for generations to come. You can find our more about all the good work these charities do, by looking them up and reading their lates news and research updates. The beneficiaries are:
- MS Society UK
- St Joseph's Hospice
- Household Cavalry Foundation
- University of St Andrews scholarship fund
- Legacy funding for young and gender diverse climbers, adventurers and explorers.
I would also like to thank the key expedition sponsors:
- RG Group - One of the UK's leading Construction, Fit Out and Refurbishment Companies, they are specialists in the Living Space, Retail and Commercial sectors. https://www.dhirubhai.net/company/rg-group/
- Frontier Horizons - a global security and risk management consultancy.
- Troop Logos - a veteran owned supplier and embroider of clothing. https://en-gb.facebook.com/TroopLogos/
- Astaris - an IT support firm for the hospitality trade. www.astaris.co.uk
Finally, we have also been pleased to receive a personal message this week from HRH the Duke of Cambridge, wishing the team the best of luck, and willing us on during our ascent.
I hope to share updates of our progress and show you a picture from the highest point in Europe soon. Please also follow our progress via Instagram and Twitter, and on our website https://www.summitadventure.co.uk/