Alfa Romeo UK is to
support an expedition by British paralympian turned
mountaineer, David Pagden, to scale Europe’s highest
mountain and break three records on the way.
The Italian car
manufacturer is backing Pagden’s team as he attempts to
achieve the first ever ascent of Mount Elbus; the first
ever ascent of the North Face; and the first ever
traverse of the mountain all in one climb by a person
with Cerebral Palsy. Located in the western Caucasus
range of Russia, Mount Elbrus is an inactive volcano
standing 18,510 feet high.
Joining Pagden on this
challenge will be former rally driver and television
presenter, Penny Mallory – a descendant of Everest’s
George Mallory, as well as record breaking Mount Everest
veteran, Nigel Gifford OBE.
David Padgen says:
“I'm very excited about the expedition and can't wait
to get onto the mountain. We have a very strong team so
have an excellent chance of achieving the objectives and
setting three records in the process."
Penny Mallory says: "I
love to push myself to do things that are outside my
comfort zone - that way you learn so much about
yourself. The money that we hope to raise for charity
and the support Alfa Romeo have given will certainly
give us an extra push to the top.”
The Alfa Romeo UK
sponsored effort will raise money for the Right To
Play charity - an international children’s charity
that uses sport and play programmes to improve health,
develop life skills and foster peace for children and
communities in some of the most disadvantaged areas of
the world. As the world’s leading sport for social
change organisation, Right To Play works with more than
725,000 children in regular weekly activities.
Andrew Humberstone,
Managing Director Alfa Romeo UK, explains: “David’s
achievements are already exceptional, having become a
Paralympian and World Champion in his chosen sport. He’s
an inspiration to us all. We wish David, Penny and Nigel
the best of luck on this incredible record-breaking
attempt.” To make a donation and support Right To
Play, please visit www.righttoplay.org.uk