My life has never been the same | by Elaine O.

My life has never been the same

Guest writer: Elaine Florencio-Ongpauco

August 2015

My first climb was in Mount Pulag.  I had no idea what I was getting into.  I was invited to join the adventure without having any prior climbing experience.  I relied on friends' comments on what to expect and suggestions on what gear and clothing to bring in addition to the list we were given.  

I remember feeling nauseated during the first hour of the climb.  I was so out of shape.  It was so cold and damp at night.  And the early climb to the peak was almost unbearable because of the temperature at five degrees Celsius.  I told myself never to believe a friend who says, "Don’t worry, you can handle it, it is not too difficult", ever again :). 

3 PEAKS: Maculot | Manabu | Batulao

Entering this year was full of climb plans. My first plan was to traverse Mt. Natib while thinking about Tarak ridge via Paniquian River and Pantingan peak. As I am realizing to have a budget and cheaper climb I end up in 3-4 peaks day hike climb in 18 hours but just finish three mountains. It was my alternative training climb instead of climbing Mt. Tapulao with UEM team Apo preparation for Mt. Apo on February. I’ve done this with my partner Ella Dorado.

Our EQUIPMENT

·         Deuter future 28 (each)

·         Conquer Hydro Attack with bladder: Source 2L

·         1L Nalgene

·         Side out tent: tadpole type

·         2 flash lights

·         Emergency cyalume light stick

·         Coleman Can opener

Our FOOD AND BEVERAGES

·         3 Pocari Sweat (smaller than 500ml)

·         4L water

·         Loaf Bread

·         2 Tuna (Can goods)

·         Trail food (Jelly stick,Chocolate bar)

·         Gatorade 500ml

And finally my first climb for 2012: Three mountains in three different towns in Batangas.