Caroline reaches new heights in Africa
ON October 17 Mallow woman Caroline O’Riordan set off for Kilimanjaro in Tanzania to trek the world’s highest freestanding mountain in aid of Irish Cancer Research.
Caroline’s group of 20 took on the Machame Route, which is known as the most challenging but most scenic route on the 5,895M high mountain. The first day’s trek took eight hours through rainforests and up a long steep incline to an altitude of 2,980 metres.
Day two was another long day with steep inclines through moorland to an altitude of 3,840M. On day three Caroline and the group moved into semi-desert habitat and trekked to 4,630M but trekked back down to 3,950M to allow for full acclimatisation, which is key to a successful summit.
Day four was more of a rock climbing/scrambling day over a steep wall of 257M, known as the Barranco Wall. On reaching the top of this wall the climbers were rewarded with great views of Kilimanjaro.
Day five was more acclimatising and they reached an altitude of 4,550M where they stayed in order to prepare for the summit attempt.
For the summit challenge the team were woken at 12 midnight, when they were given breakfast and snacks in preparation to start an eight hour trek to the summit beginning at 1am. The summit is gruelling, requiring all of their strength and might to get there.
Prior to reaching the top Caroline admitted the final journey was torturous and she felt like taking one step forward and three back. She also believes it is not just strength but will is also a major factor in achieving this great feat.
After successfully reaching the summit Caroline then faced a seven hour descent which was very gruelling on the joints, especially after exhaustion kicks in after the trek to the summit. Descending to 3,832M the richness of oxygen in the air was a welcome relief.
Caroline O’Riordan’s commitment to her good cause was also paramount in making this a successful venture and she thanks everyone for their great support throughout the year. A total of just over €6,200 was raised for Irish Cancer Research.