Badenoch adventurer to recount gruelling expedition to the top of the world
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Badenoch adventure Sam Cairns might be described as an ‘ordinary adventurer’ in a press release promoting his forthcoming talks but Strathy readers know better.
The founder of Glenfeshie-based Fitnessat58° and ex-Team GB biathlete reached the summit of the world’s highest peak Everest in May last year.
He managed to scale the 8,848m high mountain despite having to battle severe altitude sickness en-route.
He told the Strathy on his return: "This was the toughest mental test of my life, and
I'm very glad to be home.
"Mount Everest truly lives up to the hype."
Now Cairns will share his soul-searching and inspiring story later this month as he takes his local audience on a captivating journey of resilience, determination and self-discovery.
Titled "Say No to the Helicopter”, Cairns' motivational talk will delve into the profound lessons he learned during his arduous climb.
The fitness expert had to push well beyond his comfort zone - and then some.
A theme of Cairns’ talk is to ‘reminds us all that the most extraordinary moments in life are often found when we say no to the easy way out’.
Loch Insh Watersports Centre by Kincraig will host the first talk on April 18 (7pm) followed by visits to The Music Box on Sighthill Campus at Edinburgh College (April 25) and at LAS in Portree (April 30). Tickets are priced £15.
Cairns also battled tonsillitis in the lead up to the expedition, resulting in a week-long recovery period in Lukla in the Solukhumbu district of north-eastern Nepal.
His training regime encompassed three-hour conditioning sessions, 50km ultra runs, and multiple ascents of Ben Nevis in double quick time.
Cairns is also co-Founder of The Lunchbox Boys which is well-known for their catering and food delivery service in the strath.
• Tickets for ‘Say No to the Helicopter’ are are now available at https://www.fitnessat58.co.uk/say-no-to-the-helicopter/
