Conquering Mountains and Age: How The Magnificent Eleven Age 55 to 68 Proved That Life’s Adventures Have No Expiration Date
September 25, 2024
In August 2024, a remarkable group of eleven hikers—aged between 55 and 68—embarked on a journey that would inspire many. These hikers, full of spirit and life, took on the mighty challenge of summiting Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia. Their adventure was not just a test of physical endurance but a testament to the power of determination, friendship, and, above all, the joy of staying active no matter your age.
At 4,095 meters, Mount Kinabalu is no easy climb, but for this group, the mountain symbolized more than just a geographical challenge. It was a reminder that age is no barrier to living a vibrant, healthy life. Among them was Phang, the eldest at 68, whose wisdom and experience set the tone for the journey. Phang had long dreamed of this climb, but having a busy schedule and lack of consistent training in the past had made the thought of such a feat seem impossible. His family and friends encouraged him to rest and take it easy, but Phang had other plans.
“I’m not done yet,” he’d say with a chuckle, winking as he strapped on his hiking boots.
Like Phang, many people in their 50s and beyond face an internal battle before embarking on physical activities. The common justifications are always there, tempting them to stay inactive. “I’m too old for that now,” some say, thinking age means slowing down. Others, like Phang, worry about injuries or pain: “My body can’t handle it anymore,” is a frequent refrain. There are also those who feel, “Exercise won’t change anything at my age,” or “I don’t have the energy for it anymore.”
But for this group of eleven, the mountain became a symbol of something greater—a refusal to let these excuses hold them back. Each one of them had their own story, their own reason to stop. But they didn’t.
The night before the climb, the group gathered at base camp, sharing stories, laughter, and lighthearted jabs about who would reach the top first. MJ, 55, the youngest of the group, joked that Phang might need the mountain guide to carry him if his legs gave out halfway. Phang shot back, “I’ll race you to the top!”
The first day of the climb was steep and demanding, but the group stayed together, encouraging one another every step of the way. Phang struggled with his knee on the rocky path, and there were moments when he stopped, breathless, leaning on his hiking pole. “Just need to take in the view,” he’d say, though his face showed the effort. But every time he paused, someone was there with a hand on his shoulder, offering a sip of water or a shared laugh about the good old days.
On the second day hike towards the summit, one particularly challenging section, aptly named “The Neverending Road to Heaven,” nearly made Phang reconsider. His legs trembled, his breath heavy and shallow. That’s when Kok Fung, 60, came up beside him, her smile radiant. She too had her own struggles. Having gone through a medical procedure two years ago, her doctor warned her to be mindful of her body….. every step was a balancing act of will, physically and mentally for her. But she had learned long ago that life doesn’t wait for comfort.
“We didn’t come all this way to turn back now, Phang,” she said, her voice soft but firm. “Think of all the stories we’ll tell our grandkids. And the look on their faces when we tell them we stood on top of a mountain!”
Both Phang and MJ had heard the usual reasons to avoid staying active. “I’m not as energetic as I used to be,” or “I don’t want to risk injury,” were phrases they had heard and sometimes even considered themselves. But in that moment, on the side of the mountain, those excuses melted away. They realized that the risk of missing out on life’s adventures was far greater than the fear of discomfort.
With renewed energy, Phang and Kok Fung pushed forward, step by step. The rest of the group rallied behind them, creating a chain of encouragement. At sunrise on the second day, the summit finally came into view. The group, with heavy breathing and aching muscles, gathered at the peak, tears in their eyes, faces lit by the golden morning light.
There, standing 4,095 meters above sea level, Phang let out a victorious whoop. “I guess I won that race, MJ!” he yelled, his voice carried by the wind. MJ, laughing breathlessly, replied, “Only because I let you, youngcle !”
The group erupted into laughter, each hiker filled with the overwhelming sense of accomplishment. They had done it —together.
Phang’s story didn’t end at the summit. When he returned home, his grandchildren asked him about the climb, their eyes wide with wonder. He leaned in, with a twinkle in his eye, and said, “You know, I almost gave up at the Neverending Road to Heaven. But I remembered something important: Life isn’t about how fast you go, but about making sure you get there, surrounded by the people who lift you up when you think you can’t take another step.”
For Phang, Kok Fung, and the others, the mountain was a symbol of resilience and friendship. Their story serves as a joyful reminder that age is not a limitation but an invitation—to new adventures, deeper connections, and the discovery of strength we never knew we had.
So, to anyone out there thinking it’s too late to chase your dreams or climb your mountains, take it from Phang: “You’re not done yet.” Remember, excuses like "I’m too old" or "I’d rather relax" may seem valid, but they’re only roadblocks to a fuller, more joyful life. Keep moving, keep laughing, and most of all, keep climbing.
p/s: The most senior person in the group, aged 68 is Datuk Phang Ah Tong. He was formerly the Deputy CEO for MIDA (Malaysian Investment Development Authority) before his retirement in 2017.
About the Author
Ko Teik Yen (TY), Clinical Hypnotherapist, Psychotherapist, and Accredited Mindfulness Teacher, brings over 20 years of experience in integrative and holistic healthcare with special interest in mind-body medicine. As the current Vice President of the Malaysia Mind-Body Medicine Practitioners Association, he advocates passionately for mind-body integration in the mainstream healthcare practices.. TY is also a member as well as in the technical committee for the Mental Health Task Force of IKATAN (Pertubuhan Ikatan Komuniti Selamat led by Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye).
TY is an avid runner and hiker. His passion in running and hiking on a weekly basis embodied the importance of taking good care of both the mind and body in order to have a healthy and fulfilling life after 50.
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