It might be one of the most scenic roads across the Coromandel Peninsula but for three Year 12 College cyclists, the view on the way up Whangapoua Hill was the last thing on their mind on Saturday!

Over eleven and a half hours on a very cold day, Liam Cappel, Edward Barry and Harry Mellsop rode a gruelling total of 7 hours 50 minutes, climbing Whangapoua Hill several times, covering 120 kms uphill in the process, to register a total climb of approximately 9000 metres - the equivalent of climbing Mt Everest!

Known as ‘Everesting,’ cyclists around the world have taken on this challenge - climbing a hill enough times to reach the vertical gain of Mount Everest (8,848 metres). The Whangapoua Hill climb, in particular, is legendary in cycling circles for its steep ascent. Their choice of hill required 120km of climbing to gain enough ascent to complete the challenge. The rules of ‘Everesting’ state that: ‘The climb must take place on a single ride, within 24 hours and only on a single climb. Riders must descend and ascend without any assistance. Rest stops may be taken.’

To verify the authenticity of their attempt for the official record, the boys used GoPro cameras to video the more interesting parts of the ride and made use of Garmin cycling computers to log their efforts. They are now awaiting verification that they have met the necessary criteria that will place Liam, at age 16, as the youngest person ever to complete the challenge – the World Record is currently held by 21 year old Andy Rogers of Melbourne, Australia.

The boys’ aim for the ride was twofold. Not only were they attempting to gain a World Record but they were also using their efforts to raise money for World Vision’s 40 Hour Famine – in particular for the people of Malawi, the focus of Saint Kentigern’s fundraising campaign. So far they have raised $4,365 and they encourage you to visit their page on Give A Little to donate to the cause.

https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/mountains4malawi/

Well done boys, that was a mighty effort!

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