Andy aims for the top of the world

LISBURN man Andy Robinson is preparing for the adventure of a lifetime as he sets off as part of an 11-strong team to scale the highest peak in the world - Mount Everest.

Andy, who graduated from Sheffield last year, is joining the group as the team physiotherapist and will climb over 7,000 metres to the North Col, providing vital support to the team being led by Fermanagh man Neil Elliott.

With no real experience of climbing, and certainly none of scaling such an epic mountain, Andy will have a steep learning curve as he takes on the greatest challenge of his life.

"I got involved through a friend who is on the expedition," explained Andy, "who asked me to join at the last minute.

"I qualified as a physio last June and job opportunities are scarce so I thought it would be good to do something more constructive."

Andy has very little experience in climbing but does a lot of hill walking, which is hopes will help him with the Everest ascent.

"I do have a background in sport but I have no experience in climbing. I mostly do hill walking and spend a lot of time in the Mournes and doing alpine ascent," he explained.

"Over the past few months I have been learning rope skills and other skills I will need for the ascent."

Andy and the rest of the team are flying out today (Friday) to Kathmandu ahead of the Everest ascent and, if all goes well, they are expected back in the Province at the beginning of May.

The team are hoping to use the opportunity to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme as they stand on the summit of Mount Everest.

"It is quite a scary prospect," added Andy, "it is going to be a big learning experience but luckily I will have a good team around me."

• You can keep up to date with Andy and the teams' adventures in the Star over the coming weeks as they take on the most demanding mountain in the world.

Ulster Star
31/03/2006