Conquering Kilimanjaro: A Father’s Journey to the Roof of Africa
Mount Kilimanjaro, located in Tanzania, Africa, and one of the Seven Summits, captured Preston Rudie’s attention during his childhood. Now a father and husband, Preston committed to the challenge of climbing Kili and reached the summit on Sept. 22, 2023.
Founder and CEO of Catalyst Communication Group, Preston documented his journey with an iPhone camera and a drone. The footage, now a 30-minute documentary, “Conquering Kili,” captures Preston’s life-changing expedition. The journey was personal, inspired by family, and a testament to pushing one’s limits.
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What motivated your climb up Mount Kilimanjaro?
Preston Rudie: Creating work-life balance and setting an example for my daughter, London. As a communications consultant, I work long hours, and I wanted to do something that allowed me to step back and focus on myself and my family. Preparing forced me to set time boundaries on work so that I could train physically and be fully present as a parent and husband. The other key reason was showing our daughter that, with determination and effort, you can achieve great things. Remaining intent on my goals, I accomplished something that I probably could not have done earlier in my life.
What was your family’s reaction when you told them your plan to climb Kilimanjaro?
Preston Rudie: My wife asked if my life insurance was up to date. There were initial, serious concerns about safety. It didn’t help that I was going to be gone for 19 days with minimal contact. The climb itself was nine days, and there was no communication except for a 60-second call with my wife, Veronica, during that time. That was tough. While London was initially scared that something bad might happen, I reassured her all would be fine. In the end, Veronica supported me 110%, understanding that the experience interested me since childhood. We previously planned on making the journey together, but the pandemic derailed those plans.
Did you go on the journey alone?
Preston Rudie: I planned on going alone, but three weeks before I left, a friend and one of his employees decided to join me. We didn’t all summit together because they faced some health issues, but we all supported each other throughout the journey. There are significant physical threats to the climb, and things like pulmonary edema can prove deadly.
I did my research and chose a company called Kiliwarrior Expeditions. With them, I completed the Lemosho Western-Breach Route. There were nine people in our group, along with an amazing team of porters and guides – about 70 people in total. It’s like a city continuously moving because porters carry food, tents and gear. I carried my own day pack, which includes things like a sleeping bag and clothing.
How did you prepare physically and mentally for the climb?
Preston Rudie: I joined a gym, and about three months before the climb, I ramped up my workouts – going three to four times a week. Working out in the mornings helped immensely with consistency. When I didn’t work out at the gym, I walked three to four miles with my day pack so that my body acclimated to carrying the weight. I started tracking my water intake and making better nutritional choices.
Mentally, I watched every video I could find on the route I was taking so I knew what to expect. I was determined to succeed, despite pulling a muscle shortly before the trip. I understood the importance of mindset and repeatedly told myself that stopping and not summiting wasn’t an option.
What was the most surprising aspect of the climb?
Preston Rudie: How manageable it felt. Though physically challenging, I had prepared. I also took the trek over nine days, allowing my body to acclimate to the altitude, which was key. Going from sea level in Florida to 50% less oxygen at the top of Kilimanjaro takes significant adjustment. Many people try summiting in five to seven days, but I’m grateful I was able to take my time. The change in oxygen also disrupts sleep patterns, which isn’t discussed much. I averaged four hours of sleep a night. I drank four-plus liters of water a day and consumed as much food as possible.
Did you find time for self-reflection during the climb?
Preston Rudie: Without technology – no phone, no internet – you’re left alone with your thoughts. Each night in my tent, I had time to reflect on my relationship with God, my family and the things that really matter in life. Maybe some people aren’t looking to climb or hike, but finding ways to break free from the distractions of daily life and being in nature is healthy. As soon as cell service stopped, I didn’t think about work. Disconnecting and focusing on the present was cathartic and liberating.
Was there a particular moment during the climb that stood out?
Preston Rudie: The moment I reached the summit was unforgettable. It was complete joy, mixed with a sense of wishing I could share it with my loved ones. I had handwritten notes from friends and a photo of Veronica and London in my backpack. I thought about them as I took in the view. You’re literally above the clouds. It’s just an incredible feeling.
What advice would you give to someone considering a similar adventure?
Preston Rudie: Take time for yourself and disconnect. Whether it’s a hike or just a daily walk without your phone, it’s important to step back from the noise of life. Also, do your research and prepare well physically. It’s a mental and physical challenge, but the reward is worth every bit of effort.
Reaching the Roof of Africa
- Preston’s route: https://kiliwarriors.com/9-day-lemosho-western-breach-route/
- The documentary: https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=HlUFkd4wNleL0zDB&v=qKLKRX_4gew&feature=youtu.be
Photo Credit: Preston Rudie | Originally published in the November 2024 issue of Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine