6-Year-Old UK Girl Sets Record as Youngest to Climb 13,000-Foot African Mountain

Photo : X / @walesupdatesuk

In a remarkable feat of bravery and endurance, six-year-old Seren Price from Wales has become the youngest person ever to climb Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. Her climb, reaching an impressive 13,600 feet, was driven by a heartfelt mission to raise funds for Birmingham Children's Hospital, which played a crucial role in her early life.

Seren's journey to the summit began with a personal story of medical hardship. Born prematurely, she was treated for a haemangioma—a growth on her neck that significantly affected her breathing. The care she received from the hospital during this challenging time inspired her to give back. “When I was a baby, I had a lump in my neck,” Seren explained. “The hospital helped me get better, so I want to help them.”

In August, Seren and her father, Glyn Price, embarked on their ambitious adventure. They flew to Morocco and, despite the sweltering temperatures that soared above 40 degrees Celsius, made their way to the base camp of Mount Toubkal. Their trek to the base camp involved an arduous eight-hour hike through challenging terrain. “The heat was the biggest challenge,” Mr. Price admitted. “But once we reached the top, it was absolutely brilliant. We were welcomed by about 20 people who had followed Seren’s story on social media and gave her a big round of applause.”

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Seren and her father had meticulously prepared for this climb. Despite Seren's modest claim of only a week of training, Mr. Price clarified that their preparation had spanned nearly a year. Their regimen included extensive hikes and nighttime walks in a nearby national park, designed to simulate the terrain they would face. “We tried to replicate some of the tracks. The weather was different, but the terrain was similar,” Mr. Price noted.

This is not Seren's first record-breaking achievement. In 2022, she completed the UK's three peaks challenge, climbing the highest peaks in Scotland, England, and Wales within 48 hours. Her latest achievement has only heightened her aspirations. Seren is now looking forward to her next goal: scaling Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in Western Europe. “I’m excited to see the snow,” she said.

Mr. Price shared his observations on his daughter’s passion for climbing, noting, “You can’t force children’s interests. My son isn’t interested in climbing, but Seren loves it.” Seren herself enjoys the experience for the time spent with her father and the stunning views from the summit. “I like spending time with my dad and seeing the nice things when I’m at the top of the mountain,” she shared.

As Seren continues to inspire with her feats and dedication, her father hopes her story will encourage others to support Birmingham Children's Hospital, a cause that has become deeply personal for their family