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In light of the issues in Russia currently, I have taken the extremely difficult and sad decision, to have to postpone my Mt Elbrus Challenge. 

It will still happen, however, I can't confirm a date until we know where we are with the political uncertainty out there.

Appreciate this is disappointing news for all involved, particularly those that have already sponsored and paid money across. 

I now have all the kit and am literally poised and ready to go. 

In light of the commitment people have made to me, I am going to for fill my obligation of a challenge in the meantime. As a thank you for those who have already paid, and for those who do in the future. 

In June, instead of flying to Moscow, I will be flying to Italy, where I will complete the Dolomites Alta Via 1 route. 

This incredible trek consists of between 125-150km of walking, covering circa 7,800m of peak summits. The plan is to do this as an un-supported trek, without a guide, and just a small group of guys. We will look to wild camp where we can, and provide updates in the form of videos and photos as we go along. 

Each peak, will be symbolic, for those who have a constant battle everyday. 

Appreciate this isn't the original challenge. We have had to improvise, adapt and overcome to find something else at relatively short notice.

I hope you all understand and continue to support, what is an amazing challenge, and just the start of things to come.

On June 22, 2022, I am undertaking one of my toughest challenges yet - to reach the summit of Mt Elbrus, raising money for R;pple Suicide Prevention, in memory of Josh Hendy.

The Challenge

Most of you that know me will know, I love to challenge myself and do something crazy every now and again… Well this year is no different, although I have ramped it up a bit (a lot).

My plan / goal, is to summit Mount Elbrus in the Caucasus Range (Russia) on June 22nd this year.

Standing at 18,510ft, Mt Elbrus features the highest peak in Europe, it’s one of the Seven Summits, as well as the 10th most prominent peak in the world.

Mount Elbrus isn’t technically a mountain - it is an inactive volcano. With wind speeds often exceeding 100km/h and temperatures frequently below -50', it's certainly going to be an interesting climb.

Why Mount Elbrus?

That one is simple - the mountain, for me, is a physical representation of the mental battles and challenges that some people face every single day.

For the first time last year, the biggest killer for men under 40 wasn't cancer, it was suicide.

As a father of 3 boys, that for me was a hideously scary fact - and the numbers are going up at an alarming rate.

I am doing this for all the guys and girls out there that feel that they can't do it anymore, or they feel the world would be a better place without them.

I can promise you it wouldn't be.

The devastation left by suicide is catastrophic and could never be truly put into words.

By undertaking this challenge, should it help to save one life, then it has been worth it.

Your donation raises vital funds, it creates awareness and provides support for some of those vulnerable people out there.

Why R;pple?

The family behind R;pple are lifelong friends, and the founder Alice Hendy is literally saving lives every day. She is an absolute inspiration, which is reflected in the numerous awards she has earnt; Rising Star of the Year Award, Hero of the Year, Shero of the Year, Entrepreneur of the Year & Inspirational Person of the Year, to name a few.

R;pple aims to minimise the risks of the internet, while harnessing its potential for good and the tech she is producing is helping those that need it the most.

There is however more to be done. The money raised will help get new tech out there, specifically to the younger generation, to get the help and support that they need.

They are doing an incredible job and are very close to my heart.

Why am I putting this out there now, so early?

Each individual suicide impacts (on average), 137 people. That is 137 people questioning if they could have done anymore? What were those last conversations? I should have been there for them…a better friend, colleague or family member.

That is 137 people grieving for the loss of a loved one, that can never be replaced. The Ripple effect. I have 137 days to prepare for this challenge and I’m going to need every day of it.

So what can you do?

Well donate, obviously! Thankfully I have most of the kit, however, I do need some decent boots and a mountaineering jacket. I have sourced the kit, but I am looking for someone to sponsor it for me. In return, I would happily get some patches made up for my kit and provide real time updates and content for your business along the way.

I will personally be fronting the costs of everything else (travel, training etc) to maximise the amount that ends up with this amazing charity.

For those local businesses and friends that I know in business, speak to your accountants about the tax advantages. You could potentially make a charitable donation from your business and claim the tax relief. Ask yourself who would you rather give your hard earned cash to right now? This incredible charity, or our current PM and his team.

“The hardest mountain to climb, is the one within.”

Please support me and this incredible charity and like, share & donate.

Much love xx