Manchester United legend Bryan Robson has led a team of 24 inspirational trekkers to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro to raise vital funds for Manchester United Foundation.
Joined by United We Stand editor and journalist Andy Mitten as well as Manchester United Foundation’s CEO, John Shiels, the extraordinary challenge has raised more than £120,000, to support the lives of young people across Greater Manchester and beyond.
Conquering Africa’s tallest mountain was no easy feat for ‘Captain Marvel’, who first climbed the mountain in 2013 – in aid of the Foundation on that occasion, too. Bryan said: “It’s been a fantastic experience with an absolutely brilliant group of people. When you’re on the top of that mountain and you see the glacier and blue skies, it is just amazing – the views that you see from the summit are amazing.
“I found it was agony coming back down because of my ankle, but that was no matter, as the most important thing is we’ve raised unbelievable funds for the Foundation and the children they support, to give them a better life; that’s what it’s all about.”
The funds raised from the trek will go towards supporting Manchester United Foundation’s educational and community outreach programmes. Last season, the Foundation worked with over 41,000 young people from deprived areas of Greater Manchester and beyond, providing opportunities for them to build a better life for themselves.
One fan, Martin, was both exhausted and ecstatic following the climb: “It was truly amazing and definitely the toughest challenge that I’ve ever taken part in. The group helped that immensely, we all supported each other individually and came together to reach the summit.
“When we reached Stellar Point, it was very emotional and tearful for a few members of the group, including myself! I was looking at climbing Kilimanjaro one week before I received an email from the Foundation with details of the trek, which felt like fate. I’m a huge Manchester United fan, so I was even more excited to be a part of it.”
The group of avid Reds included members of staff from Manchester United and club partners DHL – who sponsored a climber from their team – and DXC Technology, who sent five staff members to take on the brave challenge.
In his latest press conference, Erik ten Hag congratulated Andy Mitten on his achievements: “I want to congratulate Andy on reaching the top of Kilimanjaro together with Robbo. It’s a big achievement, raising money for Manchester United Foundation. From our side, big congratulations. Hopefully, you will raise a lot of money for charity.”
