Emily Alasfar returns after climbing Mount Kilimanjaro (From Gazette & Herald)

Emily Alasfar returns after climbing Mount Kilimanjaro

2:40pm Wednesday 19th September 2012 in News

A NORTON teenager has taken on one of her toughest challenges by climbing to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro.

Emily Alasfar, a semi-finalist in this year’s Miss York contest, took part in the expedition through Manchester University where she is studying marketing, management and textiles.

The 19-year-old said she wanted a challenge aside from her studies.

“I did lots of training to increase my fitness but the only thing I couldn’t prepare for was the altitude sickness which I suffered from on a couple of days,” she said.

“The walk itself was so hard – it was the most difficult thing I’ve ever done – but it was also really rewarding.”

Emily spent five days walking to the summit with a final eight-hour trek from 11.30pm through to 7.30am the following morning.

“As we reached the summit the sun was just starting to rise and it felt incredible to finally be at the top,” she said.

“I’m really glad that I managed to complete the trek but I’m not sure if it was something I could do again. It was really tough and I think a lot of people underestimate just how tough it will be.”

As part of the challenge Emily raised £2,540 for Practical Action, a charity which supports less economically developed countries, through a Thai night, bingo, barbecue and local sponsorship.

“I would like to thank local businesses Harrison’s Builders, Hydromotion and the Market Place restaurant as well as all my family and friends who have sponsored and supported me,” she added.