Kilimanjaro expedition diary - 1st climbing day

This classic shot of Kilima 'njaro (Swahili for "white mountain") and the
surrounding plains may tempt some to think that it doesn't look like much of a challenge.
Although it's not a technical climb, like all mountains it presents unique challenges.  In addition the summit is at 5895m altitude (Johannesburg is only 1753m altitude) and to overcome the prevailing conditions at high altitudes requires great courage, strength, tenacity and determination.    The only way for the climber to successfully address the challenges is to approach the mountain with humility, climb (perhaps to the summit) and then descend again - usually forever changed by the experience.

Mission Control:   Satellite reception has been a bit sketchy so no pics from Kili yet.   In the meantime I've included a couple  of stock pics for your viewing pleasure!
On Tuesday morning the group packed all the clothing and gear they'd need on the mountain and set off following their lead guide, Augustine, on the 4hr uphill trail to Camp 1 which was to be their destination for the day.    Everyone was in very good spirits and maintained the slow, steady pace to Camp 1 situated at 2670m altitude.   The day started out fairly warm but the temperature dropped steadily as cloud closed in and the wind picked up.   At around 10pm, calling SA from Camp 1 via the bGan satellite communications system,  Deshun estimated the temperature to be around -2degC.  
She reports that everyone enjoyed the evening meal, which is served in the mess tent and that the food is good - tasty, plentiful and the perfect fuel for bodies climbing a mountain.    Messages from Kili at the end of climbing Day 1 are

Allie:  "So good to be back - and with an entirely different mindset!   At last we could use the fabulous gear that formed part of our prizes.  Our leaders and guides are superb and I'm truly thankful for the chance to reverse a previous negative experience on Kili."

Andy:  "Had heel pain at the start of the trail but carried on.   With prayer and support we figured out the source of the discomfort.   The 2hrs of contemplating "failure" has really spurred me on."

Bonnita:  "Great 1st day!  I'm pleased that I was able to maintain the slow, steady pace for the 4hr hike to Camp 1.   We had a good evening meal, great conversation.   After all the months of waiting suddenly here we are and I'm climbing Kilimanjaro!

Derek:  "Excited at the challenge but also feel slight trepidation.   Have to overcome fear of failure.   The team is great, leadership is superb and the organisation fantastic."

Hannes:   "What can I say?  Awesome!    At almost 2700m altitude we're not even half way but it's up there for all of us to see.   Hakuna matata."

Jan:  "10 years on and I'm back on Kili!   The scenery, and particularly the rain forest, is even more spectacular than I remembered.    The team jelled from the start and we're continuously swopping jokes, singing while we walk, setting the world to rights and, generally, just being happy to be a great group of South Africans climbing Kilimanjaro."

Kedi:  "After the anxiety, uncertainty and intimidation I felt at the sight of Kilimanjaro I am very proud of how I managed to get through the trail today without much trouble."

Thami:  "Last night at the lodge Deshun gave us Kilimanjaro orientation.   Even though she also covered worst case scenarios it was by no means enough to dampen our spirits and, besides, it's too late to turn back.  Great day today."

Deshun:  "Very good day.  We maintained a perfect slow, steady pace and everyone did very well.   Everyone happy and smiling - sang songs, worked on a medley and generally just enjoyed the mountain.   So far I'm really happy with the team members - all seem to be in good physical and mental space."

Please post your comments - they're a great inspiration to the team
and keep visiting this site for daily blogs on the 1st for Woman/Deshun Deysel Kilimanjaro expedition