Penn Adventurer Takes Climbing Hobby to Potentially Dizzying New Heights

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May 14, 2016/ Off Comments / in General News / by
Penn Adventurer Takes Climbing Hobby to Potentially Dizzying New Heights

Frost bite, fatigue and altitude sickness are among potential hazards Richard Stone from Penn will face when he attempts to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

The Business Development Manager is taking part in a seven-day trek to the peak of the world’s highest freestanding mountain with work colleague Jason Lumley. The pair, who work for timber specialists, SR Timber, are undertaking the expedition as part of the company’s 10th anniversary celebrations.

Having been in training for the expedition which begins on August 21st, Richard is fit and raring to go. “Over the moon”at the prospect of embarking on an adventure of a lifetime, he nonetheless remains pensive about certain aspects of the journey. Richard said: “When SR Timber’s head office asked me what my concerns about the expedition were, I told them, ‘Jason’s snoring and high altitude sickness.’ “Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro will be the biggest challenge I’ve faced in my life. For Jason and myself to reach the summit would inspire a great sense of personal achievement.”

Richard, 50, and Jason, 43, will begin their trek close to the border between Tanzania and Kenya before summiting at Uhuru Peak – 5,895m above sea level. Their trek, including equipment, is sponsored by SR Timber. Earlier this year, in preparation for the greater challenge which lies ahead, Jason and Richard tackled Wales’ Mount Snowdon – a sixth of the size of Mount Kilimanjaro. Richard describes himself as an experienced climber, but knows Kilimanjaro will take his rugged pastime to potentially dizzying new heights.

“Altitude sickness is an equal opportunities bully, “he said. “You can be in the best shape of your life and fail to reach the summit because of it. You may be able to run marathons, however, the vomiting, nausea and hallucinations can strike a long time before you reach the top.”

Expert mountaineers will accompany Richard and Jason on their climb to help steer them clear of the physical and mental debilitations which could hinder their progress to the summit. As and when they reach it, they plan to plant flags belonging to Britain, Tanzania and SR Timber to mark their achievement.

As well reaching a personal milestone, the pair hope to raise more than £5,000 for the British Heart Foundation – SR Timber’s chosen charity. Richard said: “Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is something I’ve always wanted to do. On behalf of the two of us I’d like to say a huge thank-you to SR Timber for supporting our once in a lifetime adventure.”

To sponsor Richard, visit the Just Giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/SR-Timber-Kilimanjaro or text GOSR89 and the amount you wish to donate (e.g. GOSR89 £3) to 70070. You’ll also have the chance to add an extra 25%, with Gift Aid, to your donation at no extra charge.