Charity climb

Back in July 2019 Edward Dijmarescu tells us what drives him and why he chose to climb Mount Elbrus for FARA

In August 2019 Edward Dijmarescu will be climbing Mount Elbrus raising money for FARA while testing his skills with crampons, ice axe and rope climbing. We spoke with Edward about the challenge, past and future challenges and why he has chosen FARA…

Hello Edward, how are you? Tell us a bit about yourself

Hi, I am originally from Romania and for more than a decade I have lived and worked in London. Over the years, I developed a passion for running marathons and trekking mountains for charities. I like taking part in various events to challenge myself and step out of my comfort zone whilst raising money for good causes.

My career and profession is also centred around charity work and in the last four years I have worked for charitable organisations. At present I am heading the property and projects department at Nightingale Hammerson, a leading specialist in residential care serving the Jewish community. I am proud to be part of such a dedicated organisation and amazing team that always goes above and beyond to provide the best service.

What made you want to climb Mount Elbrus in Russia?

A few years back I started trekking various peaks and mountains and I got a good taste for adventure. With quite a few treks under my belt I feel is time to take on more challenging peaks. Mount Elbrus will be my introduction to technical skills and climbing which will be useful for my future plans.

Elbrus was appealing to me because it is the highest mountain in Europe and one of the seven summits. It has an altitude of 5,642m and it is covered in snow and ice which will take my expedition to the next level introducing me to crampons, ice axe and rope climbing. Exciting!

This will be my stepping stone as I will work my way through more challenging and higher summits around the world.

Why did you choose to raise money for FARA Charity?

FARA is an amazing charity that helps vulnerable children to have more opportunities and a better future.

As I was born in Romanian this charity is very close to my heart and I want to help others less fortunate. The world is a big scary place and I cannot even imagine what it means to be alone with no family or help. Thus, I would like to do as much as I can and fundraise for the vulnerable children.

Read Edward’s journal of the climb

So far I had great support and help from my family, friends, colleagues and business partners. With their help I managed to raise around £1,500 from my target of £2,500.

Edward

Have you done anything like this before?

My formal introduction to mountain trekking was in 2014 when I did the Inca Trail, Machu Picchu. Since then, I completed Everest Base Camp in 2017 and I summited Kilimanjaro last year. It is never easy, but each experience taught me different things. I learnt a lot about different cultures, ways of life and I got to explore my potential. These expeditions left me with a thirst for more adventures and I also want to continue raising more funds for charities.

How are you training for the event?

Living in London I have limited options to climb and trek mountains or training outdoors in general. For that reason most of my training involves intense cardio exercises in the gym. I also take part in boxing and cross fit classes and often I go cycling and running in nearby parks. The key for me is to go above and beyond and reach the exertion point in all the exercises I undertake. This is when it works best for me and I build my endurance.

What is your most favourite item of climbing kit?

The whole kit is essential but if is to choose only one item I have to say my boots. When going on long treks and climbing mountains my feet are very important. I have to be comfortable and protect them, they will eventually take me to the top and back.

Although I have prepared my entire kit for Elbrus I am still on the hunt for the perfect pair of climbing boots B3. I returned the other two pairs that I purchased as they did not feel quite right.

What is your best piece of advice?

Always be prepared, train hard and never give up. It is crucial to be in good form but also to have the right equipment and clothing. This is the difference between having an enjoyable and successful expedition or not. Nevertheless, the positive attitude and mental strength is important too and you must be in good spirits.

Last but not least it is essential to travel with reputable agencies and trusted teams and colleagues.

What motivates you to take on these challenges?

I have always experienced an amazing feeling when I embark on these challenges. It is liberating to be part of an adventure that takes you out of your comfort zone. And, of course, I get to do all this for worthy causes and fundraise for charities.

In past adventures I got to experience the local cultures and immerse myself in new traditions while reconnecting with the nature. It is a very powerful feeling of freedom and excitement and I always come back more grounded and humble. These expeditions are teaching me to appreciate the simple things in life. I couldn’t ask for anymore.

What is your next challenge?

I plan to continue my expeditions and take on a new adventure next year as well. Perhaps summiting Aconcagua could be my next challenge. This will give me the opportunity to push myself further and close into the 7,000m mountain range. Another option could be Mont Blanc. I am not sure yet but certainly I have no intention of hanging up my climbing boots just yet.

Thank you Edward and good luck on your climb – we look forward to hearing how it went!