Turn fifty – trek up a mountain

Two intrepid supporters who recently turned fifty, took on the challenge of trekking to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.

Police Sergeant Tony McGuire’s life-long ambition to do the incredible mountain climb, came to fruition when he saw an advert on the Greater Manchester Police intranet asking for interested parties.

“I’ve drawn up my bucket list and Kilimanjaro was right up there near the top of the list. I decided to combine the opportunity to raise funds to support the amazing work of Francis House based where I live in Didsbury.” said Tony.

For the last leg of the journey, Tony and fifteen fellow trekkers climbed through the night for six hours. At 5.15 a.m. they reached the Uhuru summit of the world’s highest free-standing mountain in Africa.

“It was a formidable challenge that pushed me to the limits of my endurance as temperatures dropped as low as -10 Celsius. Exhausted I knew I had completed the hardest challenge of my life. I stood at the summit watching in awe as the sun came up over Africa. The sense of achievement and euphoria re-energised me for the trip back down the mountain.  During my low points, I focussed on thoughts of my family and of supporting Francis House to keep me going.”

Sales Executive Dave Gregg of EG Solutions, also scaled “The Roof of Africa” along with twenty four colleagues.

Dave from Stockport said: “I found the climb extremely challenging particularly the effects of Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS). I felt really unwell on the second day and wondered if I would be able to make it.  That said the feeling of elation and achievement at reaching the top was incredible and made me realise that even at my age I can still surprise myself and push myself to new heights (literally).”

The dynamic duo have raised a fantastic £1800 in sponsorship.

If you have been inspired by their efforts, you can find out more about taking part in challenge events by contacting the fundraising team on 0161 443 2200.