David Kleynhans achieved a new personal best time when he completed his fourth Everesting attempt on Kloof Road, Camps Bay, on Saturday.
He reached the 8 848m Mount Everest summit mark in 17 hours and 15 minutes, successfully completing his attempt to cycling the equivalent of the total ascent of the highest mountain from sea level to summit.
“This attempt was the most difficult one but fortunately I feel like I’ve recovered now,” said Kleynhans.
David Kleynhans pictured before he successfully completed his fourth Everesting attempt on Kloof Road, Camps Bay, on Saturday. Idries Sheriff (left) also completed the attempt in under 200km. Photo: Supplied
In total he cycled 263km in 27 hours and 37 minutes, substantially exceeding the height of Everest by achieving a total ascent of 11 489m over the course of 64 hill repeats.
The 46-year-old felt he reached the elevation of the world’s highest peak in a reasonable time.
“I planned to cycle 10 repeat stints, or for three hours, before taking a quick pit stop to refuel.
“I started at 12pm on Friday the 23rd and as the day progressed the temperature started to rise and I became dehydrated.
“Through the night I also developed indigestion, which caused me to eat and drink less.”
Kleynhans said what kept him motivated and wanting to carry on was knowing the reason behind this challenge, which was to ride in support of the elderly at old age homes.
“I do also have to thank everyone for their support, constant motivation and on-road back-up support.”
This fourth attempt followed his first one on July 26, second on August 2 and a 10 000m ascent ride on August 9.
“I’m now planning to attempt to ride another six more high elevations [10 000m ascents], two per month, before the end of the year.
“I also plan to cycle from Cape Town to Johannesburg to compete in the 947 Cycle Challenge on November 17, returning to Swellendam for the Double Century the week thereafter.”
