Article in Local Press

TRACING ANCIENT CIVILISATIONS

Climbing up the hills around her home is ideal preparation for Rhysian Pengilley. In just three months time the 49 year old from Ystalyfera will be embarking on one of the most challenging treks in the world to the lost city of Machu Picchu. Rhysian isn’t just indulging a travelling bug because while she is exploring the ancient civilisations of the Incas she will be raising thousand of pounds for OXFAM.

“I have supported the charity via monthly donations for some time but I wanted to do more. I am fifty this year and I thought it would be a wonderful way to mark it,” said Rhysian. She admits to mulling the idea over before plucking up the courage to apply and send off the entry donation. Luckily she was accepted and so Rhysian, who works for the Adult Education Department at Swansea University, is now training so she can complete the challenge.

She will join a group of 30 people from all over Britain for the 10-day trek. The group fly out to Lima and then on to the ancient city of Cuzco where they will embark on the trek to Macchu Pichu. Rhysian is already training three times a week in the gym and regularly walking but she admits that it’s not the length of the trek that worries her.

“We are walking at quite high altitudes so we are in danger of altitude sickness and as we camp out at night I am also a little worried about the bugs and creepy crawlies.” But Rhysian knows that whatever happens there is a team of professionals and doctors with them to make sure they do not come to harm. But the hard work will be worth it for two reasons. Rhysian will be able to explore the lost civilisation of the Incas in one of the most beautiful places in the world and she will be helping a cause close to her heart.

“I have to raise £2,500 before I can go on the trip. I have had a great response from local people and at work but I am still looking for more help to reach my target. We will be following Rhysian’s progress and will let you know how she gets on when she returns from Lima in June.