Chadderton mountaineer sets UK record for mountain climb - days after getting over COVID-19

Akke Rahman has conquered Mount Elbrus in the Caucasus Mountains

British-Bengali charity mountaineer Akke Rahman has conquered the highest peak in Europe in UK record time - just days after doctors gave him the all-clear to travel.

Akke is being humble about an achievement that guides in Russia described as “breath-taking” – but is warning COVID-19 recovering victims NOT to follow in his footsteps.

“I have read so much about people suffering for months with coronavirus symptoms, so exertion straightaway is not an option,” said the Oldham-based dad who was raising money for children here and in war-torn Lebanon.

“What it illustrates is that fitness plays a part in recovery and I hope it will inspire people to look after themselves better.”

Akke’s achievement of conquering Mount Elbrus in the Caucasus Mountains is all the more remarkable given that he had only just summitted Mont Blanc in France and Kilimanjaro before being struck down with COVID-19 - in a Turkish airport.

This curtailed his September attempt at Mount Elbrus, but he managed the feat in a single day and stunned organisers by acclimatizing so successfully he didn’t need any oxygen.

“It has been like scaling a mountain just getting this project off the ground," said Akke.

"I felt very low when I got the virus after Aeroflot mixed up my flight and I had to spend five hours in the airport before returning home.

"With funds running low and just four days left on my visa, I knew I had to seize the day.

"I’m exhausted but hopefully disadvantaged kids here and overseas will benefit – as they overcome the challenges in their lives.”

Akke, who is 37, began mountaineering in 2019 in a bid to improve his fitness and inspire others within his community to do the same.

His first attempt at Elbrus last year ended when guides warned him he would lose his nose to frostbite.

To help fund his efforts, please click here

Visit Akke's Facebook page @BengaliMountaineer to check on his progress.

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