An intrepid team set to tackle the Inca Trail in South America has been described as "one of the most committed and enthusiastic groups I’ve ever come encountered" by the trip’s main organiser.
A total of 35 people have signed up for the once-in-a-lifetime expedition to Peru’s lost city of Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most iconic ancient landmarks.
The two-week sponsored trip is in aid of the Isle of Man Children Centre charity and set to raise in the region of £50,000.
The trip been arranged in conjunction with the UK’s charity challenge specialists, Global Adventure Challenges, whose Event Director Peter Robinson came to the Island recently to meet up with many of the local volunteers, offering advice on the best ways to prepare for the challenging expedition.
The group is now counting down the days to their departure on 6th November and preparing to cope with altitudes of up to 14,000 feet.
"This has to be one of the most committed and enthusiastic groups I’ve ever encountered," said Peter.
"Their commitment to their preparation, to all the training and sponsorship which is required – it all points to a fantastically successful trip. I’ve led many trips to Machu Picchu but I can’t wait for this one to start!"
To help the group prepare, IOMCC Fundraising Coordinator Mark Eastham has been organising long walks around the Island and providing useful tips to help the trekkers with their fundraising activities.
Mike Cormode and his friend Justin Shields have already come up with a number of ingenious ways of raising their £3000 per person expedition 'fee'.
To reach their target, they’ve been taking part in car boot sales virtually every weekend; packing bags at Shoprite; and arranging a charity quiz night and raffle at Kirk Michael Football Club.
Mike has even worked as a cocktail waiter serving drinks at one of his cousin’s parties!
"The support has been phenomenal," said Mike, who lives in Bride and works as a salesman at MEA Retail.
"Trekking along the Inca Trail to is a challenge I’ve always wanted to do, but this is also about raising money for a very good local cause.
"They have been fantastic in helping all of us with issues such as fitness and training and really helping with ideas for fundraising and sponsorship.
"I would especially like to thank some of the retailers in Ramsey who have very kindly backed me, including St Paul’s Bookshop, Indulgence, Dolce Vita, Barista Coffee House, Model World and Outdoors of Ramsey," said Mike.
Meanwhile, with the Machu Picchu expedition in such demand amongst Islanders, the Children's Centre is already setting its sights on organising another once-in-a-lifetime global adventure next year.
