Tecmark pair ready for record-breaking challenge

Tecmark managing director Richard Heyes and account manager Mike Wainwright are now just 24 hours away from the biggest challenge of their lives. 

The pair are part of a group raising funds for the Steve Prescott Foundation by attempting to scale Tanzania’s Mt Kilimanjaro (5,895 metres) in just five days rather than the usual nine.

That task alone has just a 27 per cent success rate, but the group will then play a rugby match in a bid to make the Guinness Book of World Records for the highest ever competitive rugby league fixture.

Wainwright said: “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who’s supported us so far and want to say a big ‘thank you’ for all the donations we’ve received.”

Wainwright’s preparation has included four training sessions in an altitude chamber designed to mimic the conditions the climbers will face as they ascend Kilimanjaro.

He said: “I’m going into the unknown. I’ve never done anything remotely like this. I’ve climbed the Yorkshire Three Peaks but it’s not really the same thing, is it?”

“It’s a personal challenge. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be part of quite a unique group.

“Lots of people climb Kilimanjaro but not everyone then tries to play a rugby match and do it for such a great cause.”

He added: “It’s a big mental challenge; the weather’s taken a turn for the worse and dealing with all those elements will be a big test.

“But that’s what’s exciting. I can’t wait to get started.”

To donate, please visit www.justgiving.com/RickandWedge