FOR those who love hiking or mountaineering, there is no denying that meeting and learning from one of the world’s most renowned mountain climbers is a dream come true!
And that dream became a reality for over 130 enthusiastic hikers who had participated in a programme called ‘A Hike with Ravi Everest’ with the man himself, T. Ravichandran on March 25 at Botanic Gardens.
It is not a rare phenomenon to go face-to-face with someone who is as determined, passionate and goal-driven as Ravichandran, who leads his life like playing with fire daily.
Ravichandran has a few outstanding achievements under his belt, including conquering Mount Everest three times and climbing the world’s second-highest peak, K2 in Pakistan (which he described as the most gruelling climb he has ever experienced).
Ravichandran is clearly the epitome of the saying, ‘the sky’s the limit’.
On his visit to Penang recently, which was from March 23 to 25, Sigaram Adventure Club, a registered non-governmental organisation (NGO) based in Penang, hosted several activities, such as holding school visits where Ravichandran was given the opportunity to share insights about hiking and climbing with the children and a public talk, called ‘Zero to Hero’ programme at Penang Digital Library on March 24 before the final programme, called ‘A Hike with Ravi Everest’ at Botanic Gardens on March 25.
The final day programme was designed to provide practical experience to complement the initial two days of theory the hikers received.
School students were super excited the very moment Ravichandran started sharing his past experiences as a mountain climber.
The youngest participant, four-year-old S. Sivaranjini, was among the many people who participated in the hike with Ravi Everest.
Just before the participants started hiking, Ravichandran delivered an invigorating speech, where he spoke about the importance of proper planning for a hike, suitable shoes and gadgets needed throughout the journey and most importantly, punctuality!
He also discussed the significance of thorough backpacking before climbing a mountain, ways to avoid injuries and the role of hiking captains.
Ravichandran delivered an inspiring speech that set the tone for the hike! This made the experience even more memorable for all.
Also, throughout the hike, other topics that Ravichandran spoke about included the importance of strengthening our hiking muscles, like the quadriceps, hamstring and calf muscles.
To me, one of the most important takeaways from the hike was when Ravichandran advised the hikers to use their toes and the front part of their feet while climbing instead of the flat foot.
So, the 3km plus hike, which was nothing short of a fun-filled, memorable experience, ended in an exceptional way as each participant was given a medal to recognise their effort, time and participation.
Ravichandran was then treated to the famous Malaysian breakfast, roti canai at the waterfall café by the organising committee.
It was a perfect ending to an incredible experience!
Story and pix by Kevin Vimal