Former Olympic ski jumper Eddie ‘The Eagle’ Edwards has confirmed that he will be taking part in the Ski Everest World Record attempt on Friday 11 March 2016. The charity fundraising event, organised by UK charity Ski 4 Cancer will see skiers from all over Europe skiing the vertical height of Mount Everest in one day.
Entitled the ‘Everest Challenge’, Michael Edwards (also known as Eddie), will lead the World Record attempt in the Austrian ski resort of Saalbach. With more than 270 kilometres of piste and 70 ski lifts, the Skicircus is the largest ski area in Austria linking the resorts of Saalbach, Hinterglemm, Leogang and Fieberbrunn.
Over 100 British skiers have already signed up to take part in the World Record attempt in support of Ski 4 Cancer. To secure a new World Record, all skiers will need to descend the height of Mount Everest (29,029ft) on Friday the 11th of March 2016. This is the first time such a world record has ever been attempted.
In addition to Eddie Edwards, who has been a Patron of Ski 4 Cancer since 2014, several of the charity’s other patrons will also take part in the challenge. The Everest climber Rhys Jones will be participating as well and will be giving a lecture about Everest the night before the event.
Andy Hayward, Trustee at Ski 4 Cancer explained: “Having Eddie with us for the World Record attempt is a huge boost. And if anyone would like to join us, it’s not too late. There are still plenty of beds available in Saalbach for the weekend of the challenge. Inghams are currently offering a week at the suberb Pinzgauerhof in Hinterglemm, leaving the UK on 5 March for £699 including flights, transfers and all meals.”
Andy continued “So whether you’re based in the UK or elsewhere across mainland Europe, why don’t you come and join us? The event is taking place on the same day as the FIS European Cup event so the atmosphere in resort is going to be amazing. Attempt to become a World Record holder and help people living with cancer at the same time!”
To find out more or to register for the event, visit ski4cancer.org
Ski 4 Cancer was set up by a group of keen skiers and snowboarders who have all lost a close relative or friend to cancer. By providing a range of alpine respite holidays for families living with cancer, Ski 4 Cancer gives families something to look forward to at the end of treatment schedules or after a loved one has died. Ski 4 Cancer also makes grants to palliative care centres and supports research into the positive effects of exercise and how it can both prevent cancer and assist in recovery post diagnosis
