Ep. 35 | Conquering 29029 Everesting and How it Has Affected My Life
A Personal Journey to Triumph
When my husband Matt and I turned 50, we set out to conquer a unique challenge known as 29029 Everesting. More than just a physical feat, this event became a transformative journey that reshaped our lives, relationships, and perspectives on health and fitness.
The Seed of Inspiration
At the age of 49, Matt and I found ourselves yearning for a monumental challenge to mark our upcoming 50th birthdays. Living in rural Michigan, we faced a decline in their physical activities compared to their time in California. We wanted an adventure that would not only push our physical boundaries but also cultivate a lifestyle of wellness and fitness. Then, out of nowhere, I stumbled upon a LinkedIn post about the 29029 Everesting challenge, an experience that felt as if destiny itself had intervened.
Understanding 29029 Everesting
The premise of 29029 Everesting is simple yet daunting: participants must climb a cumulative 29,029 feet, the height of Mount Everest, within 36 hours. What makes it unique is the structure of the event — you hike up a mountain and take a gondola down, repeating this process until you reach the elevation of Everest. The event blends physical endurance with mental resilience, and the task can be as grueling as it is rewarding.
Embracing the Challenge
For Matt and I, the road to 29029 Everesting was paved with obstacles. First, the event's steep financial commitment required careful consideration. Living in Michigan, a state not known for its mountainous terrain, we also faced the challenge of training for significant elevation gains. Despite these hurdles, our determination only grew stronger.
Upon carefully selecting the mountain — Whistler, an esteemed location for its beautiful trails — we began rigorous training. We started small, navigating local sand dunes and stairs, gradually building our stamina and strength. Our training was informed by comprehensive podcasts provided by the event organizers, which featured stories and experiences from past participants.
Building Community and Support
A unique aspect of the 29029 Everesting experience is its strong emphasis on community. Participants are integrated into a Mighty Networks community, receive training guidance from seasoned coaches, and join regular group calls. We hadn't fully immersed ourselves in the community initially, but over time, we began to recognize and connect with fellow participants.
Our coaches offered varied perspectives, adjusting training and support to fit individual needs. With diverse experiences, including working with the Kyle Pease Foundation to promote race inclusivity for athletes with disabilities, the coaching staff emphasizes a holistic approach. The message is clear: health and well-being take precedence over mere completion.
The Journey to Whistler
Despite the intensity of the training, Matt and I remained focused on our goal of completing the challenge healthily. Staying at the luxurious Chateau Fairmont in Whistler and accessing high-quality facilities and recovery services, we felt well-prepared as the event approached.
The journey was not without its physical challenges. I experienced moments of nausea, an asthma attack, and other physical strains. Yet, the careful training paid off. We navigated the 30,000 feet and 30 miles at Whistler, supported by each other and driven by a determination to succeed.
Reflecting on the Experience
29029 Everesting proved to be more than just a physical challenge for us; it reshaped our lives. We met lifelong friends, connected deeply with a community of like-minded adventurers, and discovered new depths of our own resilience. Completing the challenge brought not just the prized red hat, but a newfound confidence and a transformed perspective on fitness and health.
A Call to Adventure
For those considering taking on their own Everest, this event is about setting a personal goal, embracing the journey, and engaging with a supportive and inspiring community. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or someone aspiring for their first big challenge, 29029 Everesting offers a pathway to forging new strengths and achieving remarkable heights.
Matt and I are excited to tackle new challenges and continue our journey with the 29029 Everesting community. Our story serves as an inspiration to anyone looking to break boundaries and redefine what’s possible.
Connect with Sarah:
Instagram - @livestoked_leadstoked (business) & @sea2mountains (personal)
LinkedIn - sarahbettman
Website - www.sarahbettman.com & www.livestoked.com
Follow on Facebook - CoachBettman
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Have you ever wondered if there is something more? Are you ready for something to change, but aren’t sure how to get started…or even what to change? Do you dream of living life on your own terms, full of purpose and the ability to choose what’s best for you? Are you ready to live stoked?
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I am Sarah Bettman, coach, consultant, and speaker, but more importantly, I’m a person who found myself waking up in the wrong life and needed to find a way to me.
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