University of Richmond Athletics
Albright Climbs Mt. Kilimanjaro While Abroad
03/22/2012 | Women's Soccer
Allie Albright, a junior soccer player and student at the University of Richmond, is spending a semester abroad studying at the University of Dar Es Salaam in Tanzania, Africa.
While on spring break, Allie and several of her class mates from all over the world decided to Climb Mt Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa and the highest free standing peak in the world. The climb of nearly 20,000 vertical feet took 5 days and was supported by a large crew of porters. Upon reaching the summit after a final ascent of 9 hours in darkness, the students paused for photos and began their descent, another 6 hours down to the intermediate camp. The climbers battled altitude sickness, fatigue and dehydration, as well as temperatures ranging from 90 down to 15 degrees.
"Reaching the summit was unbelievably difficult, but it was one of the most amazing experiences of my life," says Albright. "My body hates me right now and I am completely exhausted, but I am so proud of my team!" said Allie upon her return, "My semester abroad has been wonderful and difficult in so many ways, and this climb is something I will NEVER forget!!"
Allie is taking part in Richmond's extensive study abroad program, and will be returning home in May.
