As Mountaineer Sibusiso Vilane returns home from what he’s termed as an African first on Mount Everest. Vilane climbed to 800 metres above sea level, or what’s known as the ‘Death Zone’ without supplementary Oxygen.
Back home, the over 40-Trek-4-Mandela trekkers completed another second last training hike.
Just over a month to go, another crucial training underway while physical and mental fitness is key, team cohesion is also vital.
Imbumba Foundation’s Richard Mabaso says:”We instilled discipline. People must stay together, we walk together, we rest together, and then if we open the gap we stop.”
“I was personally leading the group to make sure we have to do that. I know sometimes it’s frustrating cause sometimes people are fast walkers.”
Joining the Centenary climb is Section 27’s Nsiki Mpulo. She wants young girls to have the opportunities she had – an education and to stay HIV/AIDS free.
Nsiki Mpulo says: “Section 27 is an organisation which advocates for young girls to get pads in schools that is part of the HIV work we have done over the past two years.”
Some have incorporated a more drastic approach. Climber Calvin Tshaka says:”As much as we need physical exercise and mental exercise, our lungs need to be prepared for the high altitude. That’s why we’re training with this mask.”
While Vilane is celebrating the feat, there’s growing concerns about pollution on the World’s highest Peak.
Piles of dirt on the mountain making it even more difficult for climbers to pitch tents.
And again a call to support the SABC News team who will be documenting the trek.
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