Cardiff firefighters’ world record attempt to climb distance of Everest’s summit

A team of South Wales Fire and Rescue Service firefighters are reaching new heights in an attempt to set a new world record.

20 firefighters, based at Cardiff Central, are bringing Everest to the Welsh capital as they take on the mammoth task of climbing 8,848 metres to equal the summit of the world’s highest mountain. At 29,029ft, the summit is the height passenger aeroplanes fly at, or the equivalent of 643 double-decker buses stacked on top of each other.

Taking to The Hayes in Cardiff city centre alongside everyone’s favourite firefighter, Fireman Sam, the firefighters will be ascending a 13.5 metre light aluminium construction ladder until the height of Everest is achieved. To make things a little more difficult, the crew will be in full Service Issue Firekit including helmet, boots and gloves and rigged up with full Breathing Apparatus set and Cylinder.

Firefighter Kevin Summerhayes said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be welcoming Fireman Sam on board with our next challenge. He means a lot to us at South Wales Fire and Rescue Service as he has been a big part of how we are perceived by the public and, of course, he’s from Wales!

“We hope events like these raise as much awareness of our chosen charities in our local communities and in turn, raise as much funds as possible for these worthy causes.

“There’s a great vibe among all of us taking part this year and as the saying goes, ‘it is not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves’”.

The climb follows the Decaman challenge, undertaken by Cardiff firefighter Rich Fuller, who completed 6 Ironman triathlons in as many days. The 42-year-old swam 14.4 miles, cycled 672 miles and ran 157.2 miles in total and raised thousands for charity.

Next on the list of challenges for The Firefighting Fundraisers is the Cardiff Half Marathon, where the team will be attempting to break a further 16 world records.

For more information on the Everest ladder climb with Fireman Sam, other fundraising events and how to donate, visitwww.firefightingfundraisers.org