Victor Asenov's Everest Challenge: Scaling New Heights for Blind Awareness

Blind Bulgarian ultramarathon runner Victor Asenov, with guide dog Taddy, scaled Vitosha mountain near Sofia repeatedly for 46 hours, equaling Mount Everest's height, to raise awareness for guide dog training. The challenge supported the Eyes on Four Paws Foundation in Sofia.

Victor Asenov, a blind ultramarathon runner from Bulgaria, accomplished an extraordinary feat last week by scaling Vitosha mountain near Sofia continuously for nearly two days. Leaping over challenges that test even the most seasoned athletes, Asenov climbed the equivalent of Mount Everest's height in one of the world's most demanding endurance tests.

With his guide dog, Taddy, Asenov embarked on his journey at 0932 AM on Friday, running up and down the mountain 19 times until he had ascended a total of 8,848 meters—the exact height of Everest—by Sunday morning. The endurance challenge aimed to raise awareness and funds for the Eyes on Four Paws Foundation's guide dog training school in Sofia.

Despite moments of weakness, Asenov remained focused, aided by his pacers, who provided moral support essential for overcoming the exhausting physical and mental strain. Asenov's dedication and the assistance of Taddy highlighted the critical role of guide dogs beyond urban settings, including on challenging mountain trails.

(With inputs from agencies.)