
THIS Indian boy set a world record by climbing Africa's tallest peak, at just seven years of age!
Every once in a while, we come across stories that remind us of the limitless potential within young hearts and minds. It's surprising how some children, even before they fully understand the world around them, set their eyes on extraordinary goals and go far beyond expectations.
Such stories inspire us, showing that age is just a number and that determination, courage, and support can lead to incredible achievements. Whether it's through sports, arts, academics, or adventure, these young talents break barriers and rewrite what we believe is possible.
One such inspiring story is about a seven-year-old boy who has climbed one of the world's tallest and most challenging mountains, setting a new world record in the process.
Who is this young boy
Hyderabad's Samanyu Pothuraju has made history by becoming the youngest person to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak, setting a new world record. At just seven years old, Samanyu completed the trek in 2,281 days, narrowly beating the previous record holder, Montanna Kenney from the USA, who was 2,284 days old when she climbed the mountain.
Samanyu Pothuraju (Photo: Book of Achievers)
The young boy has his mother behind this extraordinary talent
Samanyu was inspired to take up mountaineering by his mother, Lavanya, and supported by his coach, Thammineni Bharath.
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Accompanied by them, along with fellow mountaineer Shangabandi Srujana and a local doctor from Tanzania, Samanyu began his ascent on March 29. It took five days to reach the summit, standing at 5,895 meters above sea level, on April 2.
Lavanya played a crucial role throughout the journey, helping Samanyu overcome early challenges. According to The New Indian Express, 'He used to wake up at about 3 am, and used to lose stamina after walking for a few kilometres and felt sleepy.'
Despite this, his determination shone through.
Samanyu Pothuraju (Photo: Book of Achievers)
Talking about the trek, Samanyu shared, 'It was a rainy day and the road was full of stones. I was afraid and had pain in my legs, but I took a rest in between and reached the peak. I like snow a lot and that is the reason I went to Mt Kilimanjaro.'This experience was unique for Samanyu, especially because the mountain was covered with snow throughout the trek, unlike the base camp of Mt Everest, which he noted.
Samanyu's mother revealed how his passion for mountaineering grew. 'His peer group and a mountaineering event hosted by his school inspired him to take up mountaineering. His coaches at school suggested that he was strong and had a lot of potential and that's how Mt Kilimanjaro came into the picture,' Lavanya told The New Indian Express.
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