"The goals of life should not have an end. Once the dream of climbing Everest was achieved, it was time to move on to the next one."
After many twists and turns, teacher Zeng Yanhong finally successfully reached the summit of Mount Everest at an altitude of 8,848.44 meters this May, becoming the first Hong Kong woman to conquer the world's highest peak. She will soon embark on a new challenge, departing in mid-June to participate in the Eiger Ultra Trail in Switzerland and the Sky Running event in Lavaredo, Italy. Online travel agency Expedia (formerly known as Travelocity) has also sponsored her airfare and accommodation for the European competitions.
Looking back, teacher Zeng admitted that there was a moment when her life hung by a thread. Naturally, she felt anxious for the sake of those who cared about her, but in the end, she overcame the challenge.
"At that time, due to the Nepal earthquake, an avalanche occurred. The doctor said I had a concussion. I was among the second group to be rescued, but my memories of that time are all very hazy. Because I couldn’t recall just how terrifying it was, I immediately returned to training after recovery, preparing to climb again."
Having faced life-and-death situations, Zeng came to realize how small she was and understood that mountain climbing is not about conquering anything. Reaching the summit of Everest wasn’t the most important thing—what mattered was the experience, the feelings. In fact, over the past seven years, Zeng spent most of her free time preparing for mountaineering. During every long holiday, she would trek up and down snow-capped mountains and icefalls, practicing the use of tools like ice axes and crampons, while also participating in endurance races and long-distance running training.
"Climbing is not about conquest. I often share with friends that reaching the summit of Everest wasn’t because we were so capable, but because the sky opened a window and gave us the chance to get there."
Similarly, teacher Zeng believes that life should not be limited by self-imposed boundaries. After achieving a goal, one must keep moving forward. In the second half of the year, she will take on international ultra-trail running challenges. After completing the races in Italy and Switzerland, she will visit the site of the Mont Blanc Ultra-Trail in August to scout the location in preparation for next year’s competition. She will also compete in events in Japan and mainland China, advancing toward the next goal and continuing this endless journey.
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