|
Where It's At
Mount Cameroon, situated 180 miles west of Yaounde, is
the highest mountain in West Africa. It is still an active
volcano having last erupted only five years ago. It is seen
as a sacred place for the local Bakweri people who
live on its surrounding slopes; they refer to it as Mongo-mo-Ndemi,
or Mountain of Thunder.
What Happens at the Race of Hope?
The mountain is famous around the world for the annual Race
of Hope which takes place in the last weekend of January
or the first weekend of February. The course, covering a marathon
length of 26 miles, is steep, exhausting, and unforgiving.
This gruelling competition attracts competitors and spectators
from around the globe. More than 500 runners battle it out
to be the first to race to the summit of Mount Cameroon and
back again. Since it began in 1973, the winners have all been
from the host nation and the Cameroonians are unwilling to
relinquish their title. The star of this endurance race is
a woman called Sarah Etonge, who lives close to Mount
Cameroon. She has been dubbed 'the Queen of the Mountain'
as in recent years she has won the race four times in a row.
She tries to run to the top at least once a week as part of
her dedicated training programme. Her accomplishments and
dedication is even more of an achievement as when she is not
scaling the mountain she is a single mother to seven children.
Watching the Race and Other Trekking Routes
The starting point for the Race of Hope is Buea. This
small and unassuming town is swamped with over 50,000 people
who come to watch the race. This is also where tourists can
start the climb on the Guinness Track - the most direct
route to the summit. The best way to do this is through the
Ecotourism Centre, located opposite the Buea Market
and beneath the local council office. A small fee is payable
for a permit and the money is used to preserve the mountain's
unique ecosystem, wildlife, and plants.
The climb takes two to five days and the mixture of steep,
stony slopes and alpine conditions at the summit make it a
challenging expedition. The Ecotourism Office insists you
hire a guide which is a good idea on this unpredictable terrain.
They also issue you with porters who will help carry your
equipment, food, and water for the climb. Bring good walking
shoes, warm waterproof clothing, a sleeping bag, tent and
enough food and water to be sufficient.
|
