This week we heard from our own Greg Brainard, Rotarian and now world adventurer. His most recent trip was with his son Grant to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, near the Kenyan border in East Africa!

Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and one of the highest free-standing mountains above sea level in the world, rising to 19,341 feet. It is a stratovolcano, composed of three principal extinct volcanic cones: Kibo (center), Mawenzi (east), and Shira (west). Climbing Kilimanjaro offers a unique experience, often described as "walking from the Equator to the North Pole in a week".

Greg had to do some physical training in advance to make this trek up to the top due to extremes in terrain, temperatures, and altitude which can lead to sickness. But they did reach the top with the help of the entire team consisting of a lead guide, assistant guide, porters, and cooks. Scaling the mountain was a challenge but coming back down the mountain was as much a challenge after the wear on the body from the ascent.

A great story and experience that Greg and Grant will remember forever! And some amazing photographs the entire Club enjoyed along with the narrative to provide context. Congratulations Greg and Grant!