Former Saints stars raise thousands after Kilimanjaro climb
Tom Wood and Alex Waller helped raise thousands for young people in the county
Former Northampton Saints stars Tom Wood and Alex Waller have returned to the UK after successfully reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro as part of a fundraising challenge for the Northampton Saints Foundation.
The pair were among a team of climbers including members of Northampton Saints Foundation. The group spent eight days tackling Africa's highest mountain to raise money for projects supporting young people across Northamptonshire.
Speaking after returning home, Northampton Saints Foundation's Matt Robinson described the achievement as "a bit surreal" after months of preparation and an intense week on the mountain.
The group reached the summit at around 6.30am on Monday 21st September.
Robinson said reaching the top brought a range of emotions.
"It was a mixture of pure euphoria and relief," he said.
"You work so hard physically and mentally to get to that point. On summit day there's roughly 50% of the oxygen available compared to sea level, so your body is going through a lot."
Despite challenging conditions, including headaches, nausea and breathlessness experienced by some members of the team, Robinson said the group pushed through to complete the climb.
The challenge has already raised around £16,500, with organisers hopeful the final total will exceed £20,000 once outstanding sponsorship money and donations are counted.
"We've done the hard part and it would be wonderful if others could now get behind us and support the work of the foundation," Robinson said.
One of the most talked-about aspects of the expedition was former Saints captain Tom Wood's attempt to complete much of the trek barefoot.
Robinson said Wood managed the first four days without footwear before switching to minimalist barefoot shoes when the terrain became sharper.
"For all of the rib-taking Tom got, he was amazing," Robinson said.
The team also encountered giraffes on their journey to the starting point, as well as monkeys and a variety of birdlife while trekking through Kilimanjaro's changing landscapes, from rainforest to alpine desert and volcanic terrain.
Reflecting on the experience, Robinson said the climb had brought together people from very different backgrounds and created strong bonds within the group.
"We're from all different walks of life, but we really bonded. There were so many stories shared around camp and plenty of laughs along the way."
The funds raised will support the Northampton Saints Foundation's work with young people across the county, particularly those struggling in mainstream education or facing barriers linked to mental health and special educational needs.
For more information visit the Northampton Saints Foundation's website.