ERMELO – Bobby van Strijp recently summitted Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, and in doing so was filled with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude.

She set out on her adventure on November 27 and completed it on December 1.

According to Van Strijp, the journey was nothing short of an adventure, filled with both physical and emotional challenges, but ultimately leaving her with a profound sense of achievement.

Setting out on this adventure during the rainy season was a daring decision, and little did she know that it would test her endurance right from the beginning.

On the first 9km, from Kinapa to Mandara Hut, they were confronted with rain, and to her dismay her supposedly waterproof gear turned out to be as absorbent as a tea bag.

“I found myself trudging along, feeling like a walking sponge. Undeterred, I pushed forward and was determined to overcome this initial setback,” she said.

The second day presented a new set of challenges, as the group made their way from Mandara Hut to Horombo.

The sub-zero temperatures began to take their toll, and Van Strijp soon realised the severity of the situation as she felt the unwelcoming sting of frostbite in her one of her fingers and her toes.

“As the hike progressed, we made the decision to rise at 05:00 on the third day to outpace the impending rain. The 9km journey through no man’s land tested my endurance, but little did I know that the real challenge awaited on the following day – the summit climb.”

Day four was a gruelling test of mental and physical capacity, and only four of the six climbers in their group managed to conquer the summit.

“The battle against the altitude was nothing short of daunting, leaving us all humbled by the sheer magnitude of the challenge. The unforeseen obstacles we encountered made me wish for the simpler days of being a walking sponge.”

Van Strijp told the newspaper that the true heroes of their expedition were the guides and porters. They were supporting the group and even saved the life of one of their fellow climbers, transporting him on a makeshift gurney for 15km in less than five hours, from Gilroy’s Peak to Horombo Hut.

“Their resilience and resourcefulness were truly awe-inspiring, demonstrating the true spirit of camaraderie and support in the face of adversity.”

The significance of their guides and porters extended far beyond the physical support, as they not only ensured the climbers’ basic needs were met, but also prepared warm meals such as spaghetti bolognaise, carrot soup and polenta stew.

“As I reflect on the journey, I am reminded of the connections forged with both our dedicated porters and the fellow climbers who shared this remarkable experience. The realisation that we are capable of transcending our perceived limitations has left a mark on my spirit, igniting a renewed sense of positivity and resilience.”

“My father’s words, ‘Your attitude determines your altitude’, echoed in my mind, resonating with newfound significance. The triumph over Mount Kilimanjaro was not solely about reaching the summit, rather it was a testament to the power of perseverance, positive attitude, and the unwavering support of those who crossed our paths on this awe-inspiring journey,” Van Strijp concluded.