Mystical, magical and memorable as South Coast women conquer Mount Kilimanjaro
Tanya said the message she wants to share is don't be afraid to live life and to make the most of every opportunity that comes your way.
Five South Coast women recently tackled the highest free-standing mountain in the world, Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.
It is known as the highest mountain in Africa and the highest, single free-standing mountain in the world.
The group of five women, Gail Doveton (50), Coco Muggiasca (47), Tanya Hielckert (46), Linda Torlage (52) and Leanne Pretorius (47), who called themselves the ‘5 A-Linas’ decided one evening to take up the challenge of climbing the tallest mountain on the African continent.
And so off they went.
Four of the group successfully summited the majestic mountain at 5,895 metres above sea level.
Unfortunately, Linda suffered from terrible allergies and had to turn around on day four of the seven nights, eight day trip.
On the way to Uhuru Peek (the summit) they stopped at Stella Point, which is at an altitude of 5,756 metres and is one of three official summit points on Mount Kilimanjaro to enjoy a cup of tea.
The women had a team of 19 porters who helped carry their luggage, tent, toilet, food and even gas up the mountain.
Speaking to the Herald, Tanya said the group of mothers had trained hard before they left, with the highlight of the preparation stages being Sani Pass.
“The trip in the Drakensberg, before our big adventure, certainly brought us together and connected us all so well,” said Tanya, the youngest of the group.
The grueling journey up Mt Kilimanjaro was certainly a test, both emotionally and physically.
The women followed a rigid daily routine, and walked between six and seven hours a day to reach the top of the mountain.
Gail said it may be nicknamed ‘every man’s Everest’ but this journey was one of the hardest things she has ever done in her life.
“Many people don’t summit because of the altitude and I had to really come to terms with the fact that success was not guaranteed but to still pursue this goal of mine.”
Tanya said the message she wants to share from this experience is; “Don’t be afraid to live life and to make the most of every opportunity that comes your way. Believe in yourself. you can do so much more than you think if you just take the first step.”
She explained that she couldn’t be anywhere but ‘present’ while climbing Mt Kilimanjaro.
“Life is such a rush, learn to live in the moment and be present,” she added, describing her trip as a character building adventure of note.
“Whatever the size of your mountain, we encourage you to take the first step! That’s all, just one step in the direction of an exciting adventure. Step out of your comfort zone. Do something you never thought you would. Tick something off your bucket list. Make a bucket list, of small adventures and big ones.”
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