Why I hike

This November we're doing Black Friday a little differently at COCO, and we're offering big discounts on registration fees for our overseas challenges in 2022. So we asked out our CEO Lucy to share what hiking means to her and how she's feeling about taking on Machu Picchu next year.

Before I started working at COCO, hiking was something that I was forced to do at school for Duke of Edinburgh, usually in the wind and rain and only because it would “look good on my CV”.

But much like going for a run or trying out a new gym class, once I got into it, I loved it. Yes, it was tough, sore legs, feet and often ice-cold fingers, but the friendships that I made, conversations I had and beauty that I saw made it all so worth it.

Whether it was the Lake District or Kilimanjaro, that feeling of accomplishment when you reach the summit is like nothing else. The view, the crisp clean air and knowing “I did that”.

Both of next year's overseas challenges will push climbers and our bodies to the limits, and I'll be candid with you here, I'm nervous.

I’m 25 years older than I was when I did Duke of Edinburgh and 10 years older than when I took on Kilimanjaro, but I’m up for the challenge because I know the experience will be incredible. But whether you join me in trekking the uncrowded Ancascocha trail in Peru or follow the footsteps of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, you'll have incredible views, expert guides and fellow COCO supporters to spur you on.  If it's nerves that are making you hesitate, don't let them put you off. 

Firstly, those nerves aren't an indication of your ability, it's just your brain doing its job because you're thinking about embarking on something new (and exciting!). Secondly, you'll receive all the training and support you'll need to be physically and mentally ready, and we'll help you hit your fundraising target too. 

I have photos of me and my teammates from previous challenges framed on my wall in my office, they are a constant reminder of the joy that comes from challenging yourself and meeting new people, I’m excited to see who will be on the next photo and what memories that will evoke in 2022!

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