MOUNT KILIMANJARO, Tanzania - Martina Navratilova is leading a group of 27 fundraisers to the summit of Africa's highest mountain, Kilimanjaro, to raise funds for the Laureus Sport For Good Foundation, a charity helping the lives of over one million disadvantaged youngsters worldwide through sports based projects. Navratilova will be issuing a daily blog on their progress as they make their way towards the summit of the mountain via the Rongai Route.

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Thursday, December 9, 2010 - Crossing The Saddle To Horombo (3700m)

Hi all,

Today we have headed south towards Horombo, crossing the dramatic and windswept Saddle, a barren plain of alpine desert between Mawenzi and Kibo, Kilimanjaro's two peaks.

The weather is a little better, but the going is getting tougher and tougher. It seems to be constantly steep and as we started to approach the highest point yet, 4,500 metres above sea level, sheer exhaustion sets in for much of the group, and with heavy legs and chests pounding due to a lack of oxygen, every step becomes an effort.

We followed a path stretching out ahead of us where we were supposed to enjoy breathtaking views of the mountain, but the swirling cloud is limiting that.

After reaching 4,500 metres, we were thankful to start heading down towards the Horombo campsite, at 3,700 metres, providing the opportunity for much needed rest and a chance to acclimatize.

We have two days to go before we reach the summit and the group's mood is fluctuating between exhaustion and exhilaration. It has been tougher than I imagined, but that is when everyone has come together to support each other.

Martina

Climb Coverage: Previous Days
Day 3 Blog & Day 3 Photos
Day 2 Blog & Day 2 Photos
Day 1 Blog & Day 1 Photos