I’ve always dreamed about doing something a little bit different, a little bit daunting.

Over 10 years ago this week, I ventured to Tāhuna Queenstown to run up the snowy peak of Ben Lomond.

The 29th peak over 1000m that year.

After a rainy trip south, the cloud lifted and blue skies poked out from the back of Ben Lomond (1748m), a 16km return from the town itself.

The route was clear. Up past the gondola, along the valley, and up the ridge at the back towards the rocky summit. A quick turn around then back down to civilisation.

The fresh snow had left about 40cm of powder on the hills, enough to make the route conditions very interesting indeed.

Unfortunately, across the valley in the Remarkables on the other side of Lake Wakatipu – unbeknown to myself, a climbing tragedy had taken place.

I’m not going to recount that story, as it’s not my place to do so.

A tragic loss to all involved, and a reminder that the mountains don’t discriminate skill or stature.

You must always respect them wherever you go and live life to the max while you still can.


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Part of 52Peaks – A 365 day mountain running adventure across New Zealand.