The Challenge….
It was Twitter that inspired company Director, Mourad Malki to gather the Richmond Group troops and plan a climb up a mountain that stands at 19,000ft above sea level – Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. After reading a “tweet” about someone else who had completed the challenge, it seemed like the perfect way to raise money for a charity that The Richmond Group has supported for many years, Julia’s House. “Project Kili” was born.
In May 2010 training began. They completed hikes across our very own Jurassic Coast, camped in Dartmoor and smashed the 3 peaks challenge (climbing Ben Nevis, Snowdon and Scafell Pike) in less than 20 hrs. After hours running on a treadmill attached to an Altitude Simulator (designed to restrict oxygen intake) it was time for the real challenge, climbing the Kilimanjaro itself.
In true Richmond Group style the guys remained confident, despite being warned of the dangers of altitude sickness, Malaria, and freezing cold temperatures. The team, which included James Benamor, Mourad, Paul and Darren, planned a journey that would take 6 days through various harsh environments and would cover 5895km.
The group of 16 took off to Africa on the 30th July to return (we hoped in one piece) on the 8th August. The tour guide, who had 11 years experience, said that in all his time taking groups up and down the mountain, he had never been so impressed and surprised at how well our ladies and gents had done. The conditions on the day they climbed to the summit were the worst. Many of the group were suffering with sleep deprivation, and headaches. According to Paul hallucinations kicked in 100 meters from the top with images of girls dancing in front of him (He assured me that this wasn’t as enjoyable as it sounds!). Faced with 75 mph winds and minus 24 temperatures the team battled on to the summit, and despite all odds, made it.
Now back home, it seemed that the only thing the group were suffering with was a case of post-mountain blues as they recalled the “lunar landscapes” and awe-inspiring views, as well as the indescribable feeling of walking above the clouds. Many of them are now wondering what their next challenge can be, having just had “the experience of a lifetime”.
The team raised over £10,000 for the Julia’s House. The money raised will go towards improving the over-night stay facilities at the house, as they open their doors to children with life-limiting conditions at night as well as during the day giving care and support, and also valuable time off for their parents.
A massive well done to the climbers of The Richmond Group for conquering such a dangerous challenge, and for raising so much money for such a wonderful cause.
By Rachel Taylor
The Manchester Settlement
