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From Powerlifting to the Roof of Africa: Bea’s Inspiring Kilimanjaro Journey
At 80 years young, Bea Toews embodies the spirit of adventure, resilience, and the power of lifelong learning. Born in Canada and now living in Australia, Bea has lived a life rich with experiences. As a retired teacher who taught in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Russia, her curiosity has always taken her far and wide. But her most recent feat—a successful climb of Mount Kilimanjaro—proves that age is no barrier to ambition.
Bea’s Kilimanjaro journey started 22 years ago at the mountain’s base. After a safari, she asked her guide if climbing the mountain was within her reach. “No worries mama, we could carry you!” he replied. While the humor in his words lingered, the challenge stayed with her, quietly growing in the background.
In 2023, the stars aligned. Fresh from competing in the World Masters Powerlifting Championship in South Africa, Bea decided it was time to check Kilimanjaro off her bucket list. “Turning 80 was a big milestone,” she shared, “and I wanted to do 12 new things this year. This was the perfect opportunity.”
While powerlifting gave Bea the physical strength to tackle the climb, her balance presented a unique challenge. She incorporated stair climbing with a weighted jacket into her routine and leaned on her natural endurance and determination. Mentally, Bea approached the climb with optimism and acceptance: “I assumed I’d get to the top. If not, at least I would have tried.”
Three photographs added emotional motivation: one of her late husband, one of a friend who had planned to climb but fell ill, and one of a student’s mother. “They all wanted to see the top,” Bea said, “so I promised to take them there.”
The climb wasn’t without its obstacles. Bea faced the cold, thin air, and the seemingly endless ascent, but her guides made the difference. “They carried my pack, encouraged me every step of the way, and made sure I drank enough water,” she recounted. When her balance faltered, they steadied her.
Reaching the summit was euphoric, though exhaustion tempered the moment. “It was late afternoon, and I was so tired, but the joy of making it to Uhuru Peak was incredible.”
The descent was a story in itself. “The guide promised a ‘quick way down,’” Bea laughed, recalling the unexpected plan: a piggyback ride. Initially hesitant, she instead opted for support on either side as she walked. It took her 11 hours to trudge up Mount Kilimanjaro – and 2.5 hours to fly down in the care of the guide and porter – a testament to her determination and the incredible care of her team. Bea had decided for the 9 days Northern Circuit Route to climb Mount Kilimanjaro with us.Lessons Learned and Looking Ahead
Reflecting on her journey, Bea has a few pointers for future adventurers. “Listen to your guides—they’re invested in your success as much as you are. And work on your balance!” she added with a grin, recalling the toenail mishap from poorly tied shoes.
What’s next for this unstoppable octogenarian? Bea plans to train as a personal trainer specializing in senior fitness, continue powerlifting, and explore more hikes—though only in warmer climates. “Mount Kosciuszko, Mount Fuji, maybe some summer hikes in the Alps. I don’t think I’m finished yet!” Bea now enjoys looking back at her Kilimanjaro adventure together with her grandson and is looking for her next challenge.
Bea’s Kilimanjaro story is more than an adventure; it’s a testament to the power of setting goals, embracing challenges, and living life to the fullest—at any age.
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