From April 7 to 18, a group of adventurers set out to experience something unique: a trek led by Alexis le Randonneur in the High Atlas and Moroccan Sahara, for the benefit of Leucan and sponsored by Chlorophylle. Each participant committed to raising $3,000 in donations to help the nonprofit support the recovery and well-being of children with cancer and their families, in addition to tackling an impressive physical and mental challenge.
Our ambassadors Alexis le Randonneur and Anne Murray-Potvin shared pictures and testimonies that—almost!—illustrate just how amazing the experience was.
Twelve Days, Two Summits
Over the course of the 12-day expedition, participants trekked across Morocco's diverse landscapes to climb Mount Toubkal (4,167m), the highest peak in North Africa, and to explore Erg Chebbi (160m), the tallest dune in Morocco.
Here are some portraits of these two ascents:
Overcoming Obstacles
Weather conditions
When preparing for such an adventure, it is important to consider the climatic conditions one will face. While the Moroccan Sahara promises sun, heat, and dryness, the High Atlas mountain range is much colder! Anne Murray-Potvin indeed mentions that the most useful piece of equipment for her expedition was her Chlorophylle hiking cap: "It was perfect for protecting me from the sun, yet well-ventilated!"
Even with the best preparation, such a big challenge always brings its own unique surprises. In their testimonies, Anne and Alexis share what surprised them the most during their journey.
"I wish I had known it would be so hot! I had prepared myself for extreme cold temperatures thinking it would be like that every day, but in the end, it was extremely hot every day except for when we reached the summit!" - Anne Murray-Potvin
"At this time of the year, the weather is usually quite stable, but we encountered strong winds which added to the chill factor." - Alexis le Randonneur
Mind over matter
In addition to external factors, participants had to overcome obstacles that required more courage and mental strength: blisters, fatigue, and headaches related to high altitude. Anne describes a key moment where willpower, personnel limits, and trust were just as important as physical strength for her ascent:
"On the second day of walking, we had a long climb of several hours before reaching the pass and I was already exhausted. My guide offered to carry my bag to the summit. I felt no judgment from the group, only solidarity and support. I realized that I would succeed in my challenge because I was surrounded by kindness and my mental strength would lead me to the end." - Anne Murray-Potvin
Perseverance, Solidarity and Generosity
Beyond the beautiful landscapes, it is the shared pride that our ambassadors remember most. Alexis talks about the collective sense of accomplishment in enduring, overcoming, and completing such a challenge, all for a noble cause.
"What I appreciate most, every time I make this kind of trip, is seeing people reach the summit, tired and filled with emotion. There is something so human about the intimacy and an intensity that allows us to forge special connections with the participants." - Alexis le Randonneur
The adventurer concludes his recap by hoping that everyone in his community is able to find such an inspiring challenge, whether it be for a cause that is close to their heart, or simply discover their own limits while enjoying the outdoors.
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