Scaling the big one

As you read this, Westmounter Claude Chevalier will be off to the Himalayas, to be part of a 26-member team of local mountaineers whose climb to the permanent base camp some 18,000 feet up the mighty Everest has been organized to raise funds for the Make-A-Wish Foundation for children.

It is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, for climbing the world's tallest mountain is surely one of the greatest thrills this planet can offer, and it's all for an excellent cause — appropriately enough a charity that nurtures the sense of adventure and imagination in young children.

As many experienced climbers will tell you, a trek up Everest is no picnic. One must be in tip-top shape to make the steep ascent, even if it's just to the base camp — a bit more than halfway to the summit, but still about 26 times higher than Mount Royal.

At 66, Mr. Chevalier fits the bill, and by undertaking this formidable challenge he is proving that the pursuit of thrill and adventure is not restricted to the young beneficiaries of the charity he generously supports. He is showing us that there does not have to be an age limit to getting out there and experiencing life to its fullest potential. Even the physically challenging ascent of Mount Everest is not an activity beyond the reach of someone in their sixties — especially those who refuse to be pegged down or limited by the term "senior citizen."

A great tip of the hat to Claude Chevalier and his fellow seniors-in-name-only who will soon be on their way to take on the mighty Everest — not only for all the money they are sure to raise for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, but for showing us all that age should not be an impediment to most activities.