Here’s an update on Ian Dryden’s Everest trek, his motivations, what he’s doing to prepare, and how you can support him.
SIG Design and Technology Fundraising Heroes Ian Dryden, who is also our National Specification Manager for Bituminous Membranes, decided to undertake a year-long challenge, planning a trek to Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.
Some of his early challenges have been cancelled, such as the Red Car Marathon in May, but this won’t stop him.
His current itinerary is:
April 24 – Hardmoor 15
15 mile fell race at 1600 feet elevation
Completion: 2 hours 32 minutes
May 8th – Hardmoors 13.1 Wainstone
16.5 mile fell race over 3000 feet of elevation
Completion: 3 hours 20 minutes
June 13 – Program Change: Whitehorse Marathon [Ian’s first ever marathon!]
44.5 mile fell race over 4000 feet of elevation
Completion: 5 hours 51 minutes
June 26 – Hardwolds 40 Ultramarathon
77 miles
Completion: 10 hours 36 minutes
July 10th – Sea to Summit Snowdown (Canceled due to COVID-19)
2 days of biking, hiking, and kayaking
9-11 July – Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge
A 24 meter walking event over two days.
August 1 – Hard Moors 26.2 Ferndale Trial Marathon
42.2 miles
August 21 – Hardmoors 55 Ultramarathon
85 miles over the Cleveland Way
September – West Highland Way
150km in 5 days
October 30thth – November 14thth Main Event – Sponsored by SIG – Everest Base Camp
The route takes Ian through the Sherpa capital of Namche Bazaar, through beautiful valleys, dense forests, across glacial rivers, and with mesmerizing views of the majestic Mount Everest. We arrive at our goal: Everest Base Camp. Ian then descends to Gorakshep for a short break. Early the next morning, Ian hikes higher up the mountain to the 5545 meter Kalapattar peak, the famous Everest observation platform, and takes in the view of the highest mountain on earth at sunrise.
Date TBA – Hammers8
An 8-hour endurance mountain bike race held in Hamsterley Forest. This event will be postponed to May 2021.
You can donate here:
More challenges await!
We at SIG have been supporting him throughout his efforts to raise awareness of mental health in the construction industry. Last summer, we had the pleasure of having SIG Roofing and his RCi Magazine feature him in an article about mental health.
Why do you run so much?
Why are you running so much when you did so much trekking and mountain biking in 2019? Ian explains it’s all because of lockdown.
“Running got me through lockdown. While all the gyms and clubs were closed, I would often go to get my running shoes. The only reason I was allowed to go out was to exercise. So I bought some running trainers and went out and found out that running is really for me.
But I didn’t choose the simple path. Many people who start running do park runs and then graduate to 10 kilometers, but I love hiking, so I immediately started preparing for a half marathon, and by doing fall running I’m planning on going on a trip to Everest. You can touch the high ground you need. ”
And it doesn’t stop at Everest. Ian is hoping to run his first ultramarathon next year and has other plans as well. Watch this space!
Ian also encourages people with family to leave the house with them. “Children are not an excuse, they’re an opportunity!” He has two children, a 7-year-old and his 10-year-old, who often accompany him on treks.
Why Samaritan?
Ian is once again raising money for Samaritans, the charity that helped him get through the 2018 crisis.
Why does he talk about his experience of overcoming suicidal thoughts?
Ian is always thinking about how he can help just one person. “It’s all about saving lives.”
You can call Samaritans anytime on 116 123.
Listen to Ian’s interview at Banatines Gym just before he climbed Kilimanjaro.
In October this year, Ian spoke to Gary Phillipson on BBC Radio Tees about his Everest challenge, how he got into running and how the past year has been for him.
How to support Ian and the Samaritans
Ian has so far Raised over £10,000 for Samaritans,In other words thanks to your support.
He has already raised more than £2,000 in sponsorship and donations and completed more than 650 miles in training. Now is the time to once again support him and encourage him to take on Everest.
you can also Share his post: Please follow Ian’s social media accounts and join in sharing his message using the hashtag. #Ian Climb KMJ And #ItIsOkayNotToBeOkay. Find him on Twitter. @IanDrydenClimbs And also on Linkedin.