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Kala Patthar Challenge

i Sep 22nd No Comments by

Shadwell Basin Outdoor Activity Centre Kala Patthar Challenge Success!

The challengers summited Kala Patthar (5555m) at 16.57 on Friday 28th October.

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The group flew from Kathmandu and begun the trek in Lukla.  The Trek passed through Phakding, Monjo, Namche Bazar, Tengboche, Dingboche, Lobuche and finally Gorakshep prior to summiting the Himalayan peak of Kala Patthar in the Everest Valley.  It was a great achievement for the group of eight young people and the four Shadwell staff members.

“It was such an amazing journey being surrounded by the worlds giant mountains and finally the view of Everest itself from Kala Patthar, although physically and mentally draining”.

The young people battled fatigue and minor illnesses at times in the altitude however were generally fit and healthy.  “Well done to them for the training prior to the trip and their success on their expedition”.

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As we returned from the summit the stunning Ama Dablam towers up from the cloud base below.

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An unforgettable view as the sun sets over the region.

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The Community Project

We established a link with Monjo Primary School in the Himalayan village of Monjo.  The group members and Centre staff completed a community project there to develop the playground and PE facilities.  The children also receive school equipment to enhance learning and clothing to keep warm in the cold mountainous conditions making it easier for them to focus on their lessons.

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Here is a picture of the Kala Patthar Challenge Team and the young people of the school after they received their down jackets and school bags filled with stationary and other items.  The team taught lessons in English, Mathematics, Art’s and crafts, Football, Skipping, Team Games and a sports racing challenge.

 

Prior to the expedition

The group have been fundraising and training for the expedition for a year and completed their last training trip to Snowdon in September.  Following in the footsteps of the very first Everest expedition, the team climbed up Snowdon via the ridge of Lliwedd, enjoying the fantastic views from the top.

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Details of the expedition

The expedition will trek from Lukla to Kala Patthar on an epic journey reaching 5,555 metres. The group of eight 15 to 18 year olds will spend 22 days from October to November 2016 walking in the Everest Valley. During the trek they will learn about the region, its people and the environment.

We have also established a link with Monjo Primary School in the Himalayan village of Monjo.  The group members and Centre staff will complete a community project there to develop the playground and PE facilities.  The children will also receive school equipment to enhance learning and clothing to keep warm in the cold mountainous conditions making it easier for them to focus on their lessons.

The young people on the challenge will have an adventure of a lifetime , most definitely have a life changing experience and then be in a position to inspire others. On return from the expedition they will visit local schools and present the project to other young people.

A massive thank you to all our sponsors and those that donated money towards this successful expedition and to those that helped but did not go on this amazing adventure. We did it for all of you. 

Thank you.

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