Russel Low (Of Counsel, Singapore, 2014-2016) together with fellow alumnus, Victor Phiong (Associate, Singapore, 2015-2016) and another friend spent 15 days in the Khumbu/Everest region in the Himalayas to climb Lobuche, one of a few trekking peaks in Nepal. Russel reflects on this inspiring challenge.

As part of our global charitable initiative in 2016, you organised and participated in the Norton Rose Fulbright Singapore trek to Mount Rinjani on the Indonesian island of Lombok, to raise funds for Special Olympics, a venture which raised nearly SG$20,000 for the charity. What motivated you to take on this new adventure?

I really enjoyed not just the actual trek itself, but also the planning and organising process. Since then, I have planned and organised a few treks to places like Mount Siguniang in Sichuan China, Mount Agung in Bali, Karly Tau and the Tien Shan mountains in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. I would typically approach friends. As this was the most 'serious' trek, I didn't receive much interest due to the duration of the trek and the equipment one had to invest in. So it was really by default that we ended up with just us three. We were part of a larger group who trekked Langtang Valley and Gosainkunda in Nepal last year. As we wanted to do something more challenging, not just in terms of altitude but also technical skills, we decided to find a peak which fulfilled these criteria. We had to choose between Mera Peak, Island Peak and Lobuche which are all in the 6000m range. We chose Lobuche East Peak (6119m) because it was the least visited of the three and I think it has the best views.

Trekking is said to be one of the best ways of exploring and enjoying the beauty of nature as well as relieving stress and eliminating anxiety. However, with an itinerary which included several acclimatisation hikes over 5000m such as Everest Base Camp and Kongma La Pass, the most difficult of the three high passes in the region, surely you experienced both the positive and the negative?

There were probably more highs than lows especially when you get to see vistas of the Himalayan range. Seeing and meeting with other advance and professional climbers was also motivating. One of the key highlights is interacting with people at the lodges at the end of the day. Many of them come from different countries with diverse backgrounds. I think we encountered people of at least 34 nationalities. Everest Base Camp (EBC) is probably the most popular trek in Nepal with thousands of people participating during the climbing season. However because of its commercial nature, it tends to get crowded on the main route. The lodges are fairly basic, but unlike last year, the toilets had a proper throne, so I was more than happy.

You and Victor forged your friendship during your time at Norton Rose Fulbright. Did you motivate each other?

When you're on the move, you tend to be walking alone and in single file. Often, it's just you, the mountains and your own thoughts. That keeps you moving because your mind is elsewhere and you ignore the physical pain or fatigue. But there are certain parts where it can get both physically and mentally challenging. We push and encourage each other whenever we can, but more often than not, we rely on our own mental resolve to motivate and push ourselves. At the end of the day, no matter what someone says or does, it really boils down to yourself. This is especially so on summit day when you've spent the last 6 hours just doing one thing, which is going up.

With a lot of time to think, a trek must test your limits both mentally and physically. Was there an element of self-discovery by the end of a trek?

A trek like this can be life-changing because you are likely to learn more about yourself than from any other experience. I think most people will discover just how strong and determined they can be if they put their heart, but more importantly, their mind to it. It's really a case of mind over matter. Treks can also bring out the best and worst in people. Thankfully I was fortunate to only see the best side.

And if your experience has inspired others to participate in a trek, what advice would you give to others planning such an endeavour?

I call it the 3Ps: planning, preparation and staying positive. It is crucial to have a plan. Plan where you want to go, what you want to do and achieve and find a reliable operator that you can trust. The worst thing that can happen is to cut costs and corners because this can end up becoming a question of life and death. Always do your research. Preparation for your trek is essential. Preparation is broken down into two main components: physical fitness and equipment. Let's face it, treks are physically demanding and require a good level of fitness and endurance. You therefore need to undergo a training program to get you fit enough. Having the right equipment can also determine your chances of success. Finally, have a positive attitude. This will carry you through, even if you end up failing to complete the trek or failing to summit.