GEORGE NEWS - Local endurance athlete Thembi Sojola and his support team decided to hang up his running shoes shortly after starting his third ‘Everest’ attempt due to adverse weather conditions.

The trails had become flooded, making it too dangerous to continue running.

Before stopping, Sojola had completed 17 923m of elevation of his planned 26 400m and covered an impressive 157.94km since starting his challenge at 18:00 on Thursday.
Chané Botha, a biokineticist, confirmed that by Sunday evening, 9 August, R50 000 had been donated to the fundraising campaign, and all proceeds will go towards George Child and Family Welfare.

Donations can still be made until 18 September. Supporters can contribute by searching for ‘26 Climbs, One Purpose – Thembinkosi’ on BackaBuddy or by contacting Botha on 072 234 6906.

“Even though it was a tough decision, it was a wise choice, given the conditions,” said Botha, who has been at the base camp supporting Sojola since Thursday. She and her colleague, Torrien Ravenscroft, a sports scientist, were part of the team supporting Sojola throughout the challenge.

Sojola had to make the tough call to end his challenge this evening as adverse weather conditions made it too dangerous to continue. Photo: Deidre Cloete

Gratitude was expressed to everyone who contributed to the challenge, whether through donations or by providing food, the photography, the runners who kept Thembi company on the trails day and night, warm clothing, dry blankets and towels, security and shelter.

Sojola’s goal was to climb George Peak enough times to gain more than 26 400m of elevation, the equivalent of climbing Mt Everest three times, all in aid of George Child and Family Welfare.

While he did not reach his goal, his efforts, as well as those of his dedicated support team and the wider community, have made a significant difference to the fundraising campaign.

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