One Rockinghorse supporter has set himself a heighty challenge in a bid to raise funds.
Chi Lee has signed up to the Mount Kilimanjaro challenge which will begin on Friday 27 September. In partnership with Global Adventure Challenges, he will climb the 5,895 metres to the summit of one of the most famous mountains in the world.
It’s an overseas charity challenge of a lifetime for philanthropist Chi who works for The S Events company in Hove. He has targeted himself to raise an incredible £10,000 for Rockinghorse and has already raised over £3,000.
Since February, Chi has been training for the epic challenge. We spoke with him to find out more…
What inspired you to take on the mighty Mount Kilimanjaro?
“Kilimanjaro is the name of a horror movie which has stuck with me since I was a young lad. The perception of the mountain has always struck me with fear and terror. When I saw the opportunity of a Mount Kilimanjaro charity trek arise, I felt nervously excited and immediately signed up to the challenge. It’s time for me to overcome my fear and take on the beast!”
Have you ever done anything like this before?
“Apart from hiking 8km across the Alps in Davos, Switzerland in thick snow, this will be my biggest challenge yet.”
What are you most looking forward to about the challenge?
“I’m really excited, but at the same time, feeling apprehensive about the altitude sickness. I cannot wait to reach the summit and see Mount Kilimanjaro in real life, whilst meeting some great like-minded people too.”
Tell us about your training regime…
“It involves going to the gym three times a week, incorporating a mix of weight training and cardio. I’ve also been trekking Devils Dyke in the South Downs twice a week. My plan is to ramp up the cardio in the last couple of months and booking in some sessions at the altitude training centre in London.”
Why have you chosen to support Rockinghorse?
“Because Rockinghorse is a small local charity close to my heart that has been doing great work in the community since 1967. Rockinghorse raises money to make life better for sick and disadvantaged children in Sussex. The charity is true to its mission and I’m proud to be able to support them and help make a difference.”
The nature of an overseas challenge means that they do have a high fundraising target. How have you been raising funds so far?
“Asking for money is never an easy thing to do. I have reached out to friends, family and local business owners to help me reach my goal. I’ve been talking about my challenge and set up a JustGiving fundraising page which I’m sharing on my social media channels. In addition to this, I’ve also taken on a second job at Hins Restaurant (located on Church Road in Hove) on Friday evenings. All my wages will go towards my fundraising for Rockinghorse.
“I’m also offering local businesses the opportunity to have their company logo printed on a banner which I will take on the trip with me. When I reach the summit, I will put the banner up and have pictures taken with it to share on social media. I’m hoping to gather some more local business support in this way.”
Thank you Chi!
The Rockinghorse team wishes Chi Lee the best of luck for his Mount Kilimanjaro challenge in September. You can keep up-to-date with his journey and support him, here: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/chi-lee.
Are you tempted by an overseas charity challenge? Through our partnership with Global Adventure Challenges, we have charity places available for a number of exciting trips. To find out more, please click here.