Highland fitness expert conquers Mount Everest
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A Highland adventurer has returned safely home after conquering the world's highest peak.
Sam Cairns, Founder of Fitnessat58° and ex-Team GB biathlete, reached the summit of the 8,848m high mountain last Thursday morning at 4.45am.
Cairns had to battle severe altitude sickness to complete the feat.
He said: "This was the toughest mental test of my life, and I'm very glad to be home.
"Mount Everest truly lives up to the hype."
He continued: "Being at the top is like being in a plane but your feet are on the ground.
"The extreme weather made it hard to enjoy but I summited as the sun came up which added to the amazing feeling."
In a testament to his indomitable spirit, Cairns also battled tonsillitis in the lead up to the expedition, resulting in a week-long recovery period in Lukla in the Solukhumbu district of north-eastern Nepal.
He received backing from Randox Health for the trip of a lifetime.
His training regime encompassed three-hour conditioning sessions, 50km ultra runs, and multiple ascents of Ben Nevis in double quick time.
Cairns expressed his gratitude for the "tremendous support system" that has been instrumental in his journey.
He said: "From climbing partners to family and friends, their unwavering encouragement and assistance have been invaluable in overcoming the obstacles encountered during this monumental undertaking."
Cairns is also co-Founder of The Lunchbox Boys which is well-known for their catering and food delivery service in the Strathspey.
