Man to climb Table Mountain 365 times for charity

CAPE Town hiker Andrew Patterson will climb Table Mountain 365 times this year to raise R1 million for charity. The 38-year-old entrepreneur’s 365 Ubuntu Climbs initiative hopes to shed light on critical South African issues and improve the lives of the poor.

Donations will be collected via crowdfunding platform, BackaBuddy. The funds will be distributed to Habitat for Humanity, One Heart For Kids and the Sunflower Fund. The three organisations will work with Patterson to undertake a series of projects like building new homes, teaching children the importance of reading and create awareness about Leukaemia in South Africa.

“I am passionate about fitness and charity and my love for both grew after being retrenched from work last year.

“I got the idea to start the campaign while I was driving past Table Mountain to Stellenbosch one night. I was either going to return to corporate or do something to help South Africans,” he said.

“My mantra is to take things one step at a time. Small steps eventually lead to the final goal. I believe that power comes from focusing on what you can do, rather than what is wrong,” said Patterson.

He has raised R33 948.67 from locals and international donors since starting the campaign.

The Sea Point resident warns those who want to conquer the Table Mountain climb to be prepared.

“The weather can change at any time so being prepared is important. Make sure you hydrate, wear comfortable clothes and start the journey early,” he said.

People can visit https:// www.backabuddy.co.za/365ubuntuclimbs to find out more about the cause and to make a donation.