At new heights: Leet (front row, far left) with his Everest Base Camp hiking group.
GETTING caught in a snowstorm while ill and losing his way on a trail alone were among the mishaps that could have prompted septuagenarian Leonard Leet to hang up his hiking boots for good.
But he kept going, pushing himself to manoeuvre through challenging terrain, while enjoying the company of hikers from all walks of life.
“Every hiking trip is a different experience, and every trip brings back wonderful memories,” the 75-year-old Johorean told StarEdu.
First introduced to hiking by a church friend at age 61 in 2011, the retired finance professional went on to conquer Everest Base Camp in Nepal in 2014 – a trip he described as his most memorable.
“I had my endurance stretched beyond my threshold and was caught in a frightening snowstorm while suffering from altitude sickness and food poisoning at the same time,” he recalled, adding that he was rescued by helicopter from camp before being taken to hospital.
“Even so, the breathtaking scenery I wouldn’t have witnessed on any guided tour, alongside the close friendships formed with fellow hikers, made it all the more special,” he shared.
For Leet, hiking is a sport that suits his physical abilities.
“While I wasn’t good at games no matter how hard I trained, hiking doesn’t require as many skills,” he noted.
He added that contrary to popular belief, hiking is strengthening for the knees.
“My knees got stronger. I can’t recall the last time I had a severe knee injury since I took up hiking.
“Back when I was playing golf, I had to ask my doctor for a jab in the knee before heading to the course!” he said.
He also shared that hiking gives him plenty of opportunities to make friends with people who share a common interest.
“And that’s the most important thing – to talk about anything, be it politics, history, geography or hiking experiences the other person hasn’t had,” he said.
Leet’s hiking journey, however, did not start smoothly.
During his first hike – a trip to Gunung Panti in Kota Tinggi, Johor – he agonised over the trek.
“After about an hour, I grew impatient. Several times I asked our leader if we were about to reach, and each time he assured me we were. As I started sweating, I thought how nice it would have been to stay home, leaning on my sofa and watching TV!” he said.
He recounted feeling stunned when he realised they would have to trek several kilometres, crossing streams and climbing a steep hill using dangling roots as ropes, knowing that one slip could mean a serious fall.
But upon reaching the plateau, Leet said his negative thoughts slowly dissipated.
“We could see the surrounding hills and the valley below. The weather was cool and refreshing,” he said, adding that scaling the rocky hill gave him a sense of achievement, confidence, and lessons in tenacity and perseverance.
Inspired by nature’s splendour and the camaraderie among his hiking buddies, he never looked back.
“Hiking shows that our minds can go into overdrive and that nothing is too demanding. I carry with me several Bible verses; they give me purpose and inspiration to go beyond my limits,” he shared.
To those keen to start hiking, Leet advised beginning with “easy hikes”.
“Numerous trails are doable for beginners. Don’t be gung-ho when you are just starting out, and find someone experienced to show you the ropes. Get yourself proper attire and a good pair of hiking shoes – not necessarily expensive ones – to prevent injury,” he said.
He also recommended learning from other hikers’ experiences.
“I read blogs by hikers who had been to a particular mountain beforehand. My motto is ‘never take anything for granted, so always be ready’,” he said.
Leet also cautioned hikers to always bring water.
“I’ve come across newbies crying out for water.
“I’ve even witnessed a hiker who died of a heart attack, so make sure you are fit enough to hike!”
Looking ahead, Leet said he hopes to embark on more hiking adventures.
“I thank God and my parents for giving me an athlete’s heart, as doctors have told me, though my pulse has always been rather low. Even at 75, I’m still able to hike with youngsters,” he concluded.
Tina, 15, a student in Johor, is a participant of the BRATs Young Journalist Programme run by The Star’s Newspaper-in-Education (Star-NiE) team. For updates on the BRATs programme, go to facebook.com/niebrats.
Safety tips for every hiker
“WHEN hiking on hardcore trails, one has to be prepared for all kinds of challenges,” cautioned seasoned hiker Leonard Leet.
Below are 12 items on his checklist – potential challenges to watch out for and the precautions to take.
1. Getting lost in the jungle
“This is common, especially when trails are heavily covered by undergrowth. Ensure your headlamp and mobile phone batteries are fully charged. Carry a whistle.”
2. Thunderstorms in the middle of the night
“Rainwater from hilltops can flood tents. Select a campsite on flat ground away from hillsides.”
3. Falling trees and branches
“Stay alert for cracking sounds and be prepared to run.”
4. Leeches
“Some hikers bring garlic spray, while others rub ‘555’ soap on their pants and socks.”
5. Food poisoning
“Always bring medication, and don’t forget toilet paper!”
6. Dehydration
“It’s real, so bring sufficient water.”
7. Hornet stings
“Carry antihistamine tablets – they may save your life.”
8. Muscle cramps
“Bring muscle rub and salt.”
9. River crossings
“Never underestimate the current or the boulders, even if you’re a good swimmer.”
10. Falling from high ground
“Before holding on to any tree branch, root or rope while scaling, make sure it can support your weight.”
11. Altitude sickness
“Slow down, breathe through your nose instead of your mouth to conserve water, avoid talking unnecessarily, take small sips of water, and consider taking a small dose of medication to prevent altitude sickness before setting off.”
12. Snakes
“Scan the ground as you trek. A knife can come in handy if you’re attacked by a python.”
With the theme of the article in mind, carry out the following English language activities.
1 In groups, design a poster featuring safety tips for hikers. You may include Leet’s tips or your own. You may also use words and pictures from today’s newspaper.
2 What are three activities you would recommend for senior citizens to try? In pairs, role-play a dialogue where you share your recommendations with a senior citizen.
The Star’s Newspaper-in-Education (Star-NiE) programme promotes English language learning in primary and secondary schools nationwide. For Star-NiE enquiries, email starnie@thestar.com.my.
