If there's a mountain to climb Mark McCracken will do it.
The 45-year-old Innisfail mountaineer has set his sights on ascending Mount McKinley in Alaska, or Denali (Koyukon Athabaskan for "The High One"), in early June with a goal to raise $130,000 for breast cancer research. McKinley is not the first high peak he has climbed in his short two-year stint as a mountaineer.
“I have always loved hiking and being outdoors,” said McCracken. “Before I joined the oil industry, I worked in the Banff and Lake Louise area for Brewster's as a horse guide and supply runner. After I left Brewster's, I guided in Colorado as well. Living outside in tents, riding horses and packing supplies was a great way to spend my time when I was younger.”
McCracken has worked in the oilpatch for 16 years now but two years ago on a three-day introduction to mountaineering course put on by Yamnuska Mountain Adventures, he got hooked.
“One three-day adventure, and I could not get enough of mountain climbing,” added McCracken. “We spent two days training on the glacier in the Columbia Icefields and the third day we ascended Mount Athabasca. It was much harder than I expected and I heard myself say, ‘I can't do this.' When I finally reached the top, the joy was overwhelming.”
He added it was more than he expected and several mountain climbs later, he's ready to challenge the 20,320-foot peak.
Prior to the June 12 attempt on McKinley, McCracken prepared by climbing Mount Ranier, Mount Joffre and Mount Assiniboine. He said he may attempt one of the Himalayan peaks once he completes his current goal.
“I can only focus on one peak at a time,” said the mountaineer. “Training for the climb and raising funds for breast cancer may be harder than the ascension.”
His climb has been tentatively scheduled for 21 days but McKinley is rated one of the toughest mountains to tackle. Citing experts who point to thinner air in the Alaska ranges, and the colder temperatures, which can drop to - 100 C, McCracken expressed momentary “climber's regret.”
“I may not even be able to finish the climb depending on the weather, even in June,” said McCracken. “Whatever happens, if I make it to the peak or am turned back by extreme weather, this will be a success for me.”
To date the climber has raised close to $4,000 for breast cancer yet his reason for climbing is not for a mother, sister, or grandmother.
“I want to give back,” said McCracken. “I am able to do this physically, and I want this to mean something for those who suffer with breast cancer. I will be donating all funds to the Canadian Cancer Society that are raised.”
Further information on McCracken and his ascent can be found at his website mark-mccracken.squarespace.com
