ATC e-Newsletter April/May 2017

Dear  Fellow Trekkers
Every relationship has its milestones. The first date, the first kiss, the first orgasmic moment, the obsession and intense passion, the first celebration, regret and argument leading to the many it's "freaking over man. I'm never ever doing this again." Well the last 2 months, we witnessed first hand these milestones; that is our relationship with the mountain and peaks. Although we successfully completed many of our favourite and popular Asian Treks; they have not been easy nor drama free. Go back to the starting paragraph and now relate it to the mountain.

We are an all women's club after all and our day to day conversations, get togethers, trainings and overseas treks are never plain and boring. Just to recap, treks completed since March end include 1) Mount Kinabalu, 2) Lantau, Sunset & Dragon's Back, Hong Kong, 3)Mount Rinjani 4)Mount Agung and Mount Batur and 5)Jade Mountain. Drum roll......To date, we have had over 150 amazing trekkers achieve their personal goals on mountains of their choice this calendar year. We are so proud of each and everyone of them.  In addition, the local treks to Malaysia remain our hot spots for mountain lovers as they offer opportunities for experienced trekkers to step up their fitness, a perfect starting block for newbies and a suitable ground to try out and wear out hiking boots. A lot of our members initiated their mountain relationship, the courting and first dates without having to travel too far, stay away for too long and spending too much on something that may not be a permanent affair. Ok you get the drift.

Based on conversations during our treks and trek trainings, it appears to be a common stereotype that women don’t give enough support to other women. As a trekking community we know it’s just not true. In our world, women do help each other, and we go further and faster when we do. Literally to the summit and all the way back down to base. As women trekkers, we must celebrate each other’s accomplishments and achievements loudly and proudly.

The laughters, interesting stories, sense of camaraderie and new friendships formed on these treks cannot be explained to others who have yet to experience it. These journeys and shared experiences  create meaningful stories to tell for generations to come. We can learn a lot about ourselves on these expeditions too. We can achieve important things in our lives if we dream big and put in the work.  Dream Mountains. Set Goals. Take action!

Hopefully some of you have found some peace, calm and stillness post trekking in the last couple months. For those still working on your upcoming trip, keep training for every ounce of effort put in now is worth it.  However  bear in mind that you do not need to travel far to see natural beauty. We are blessed with some beautiful nature parks in Singapore. Enjoy your walks in Bukit Timah Hill, MacRitchie and other nature reserves available and newly opened. They are excellent training and provide a wonderful amount of nature, light, oxygen and positive energy to keep you grounded and connected.. Each one of you, the ladies of Amazing Trekkers Club, is able to provide a wonderful daily support to each other on our walks, both on a personal and physical level. You are truly amazing!

On all the treks completed, we introduced our Rules of Responsible Trekking agreement whereby every trekker will need to adhere to, as far as possible. It is true that you can succeed best and quickest by helping others to succeed. When exhaustion sets in, it is often the team, as a group entity, that keeps the individuals safe and moving forward. It is important that throughout the journey, trekkers are consulted with and checked on frequently, relying on those who have the strengths to see each other through. 

Find out what our community have been up to this month and what is coming up, read about these in our last section - Members, Partners and Experts. 

Congratulations to our March Star Trekker, Takako Kusunoki. Takako is from Japan and is married with 2 daughters; Natsuse (16) and Honami (14).
She loves surfing and playing tennis. Her daughters are part of WTA Finals ball kids squad. 
The Kusunoki family have been in Singapore for 4 years. Born in Osaka, Takako moved to Tokyo after graduating from university.  One summer, when she was a student, she spent a whole summer at the mountain hut in Hakusan, Northern Japan, working for climbers. She found it so interesting and fun. "Since then I've been into nature more. I climbed Mt. Fuji and other smaller mountains in Japan".  As a family, they love camping - it's one of the things they miss whilst living in Singapore.
In January, the Kusunoki's climbed Mt.Kinabalu. "That family experience brought me back to the year she spent climbing mountains. "My daughters are teenagers, and this is sometimes easy and most times very difficult. However, when we are in nature, we forget everything, we find ourselves enjoying the simple things in life and we learn everyday of our trip.

Takako joined Amazing Trekkers Club early this year, but since joining she has been a very active and valuable member of our Community. She trekked Gunung Lambak with 25 other Trekkers and got on well with everyone; always ready to encourage, motivate and support her fellow trekking buddies. In addition, Takako completed an ATC organized Gunung Ledang trek involving 22 members, not only did this star trekker completed a very challenging trek in 7 hours, she waited for 6 hours for the last group to arrive before making our way back to Singapore with no complaints. Not even a single question being asked apart from updates on the safety of her fellows trekkers. She even offered to demonstrate her favourite post trek stretches to us whilst we wait. Takako is such a good sport, a real gem and kind trekking friend to many of her ATC friends. 
"I knew I had to join ATC.  I think the god of mountain lead me to join this group.  I am very lucky to meet amazing people who have the same passion and great spirits.  Looking forward to exploring more mountains with ATC."

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Congratulations Cathy Balcer for being voted April Star Trekker. 
An interview with Cathy who completed Gunung lambak twice, Hong Kong Lantau/Sunset/Dragon's Back and is in TeamEverest Base Camp :
"Of late, I got struck by two life accidents. One physical (fractured spine), one psychological (burnout). Both times I had to find a way to switch off from a hectic life, rest and mind my self. I am still in a bit of a recovery phase for both, but all went so much better when I discovered this Amazing Trekkers Club. It was not easy at first for me to make the move, but when I met Hazleen, Shah and Becca in the Parkland Green Starbucks on Thursday 2nd February of this year, I knew this would be good for me. I felt like I immediately connected with the ladies. For sure, trekking would be a challenge for me, both physically and mentally, and that it was exactly what I needed. Then, I went on my first Bukit Timah training and I loved it. It was not a walk in the park but the spirit and support of the group helped me through it. Since then, I've grown stronger and more confident, becoming my real self again. The diversity, understanding and openess of the club members is a breath of fresh air. We work hard and celebrate each other's achievement. I am thankful and honoured to be in such great company! Tap on the back to you all, you deserve it!"
As do you Cathy, you bring such a positive attitude to the mountain and we always have fun and a laugh in your company.

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Mount Kinabalu
These 12 ladies attended our information evening last November with a few friends and mostly strangers. Very quickly, they bonded and shared tips when they trained together as members of Amazing Trekkers Club. As the days went flying past, they found themselves, 4 months later, standing on Low's peak with their trekking buddies. They have every reason to celebrate their triumph after achieving their dream of climbing Mount Kinabalu. 

They've now inspired us to be brave and bold and it is not too far fetched to say we can dream for a better world if we all come together and have the courage to change our lives to be fit, fearless and fantastic. So let us advocate and share this passion "to focus less on glass slippers and more on pushing through the glass". These passionate women are so lucky to be in this position to inspire others to overcome any obstacles and conquer Mount Kinabalu as a team. We can and we will because together we are stronger! More pictures.

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Hong Kong & Lantau Extravaganza
We were thrilled to celebrate yet another inspiring experiene, extraordinary journeys and amazing exploration in nature, under the capable leadership and guidance of the fabulous Elsa Jean De Deau. As said by our trek leader Liz Weselby, "Climbing mountains is a metaphor for life - there are ups, downs, highs and lows and it often hurts, but stick with it and the positives win out." We prepared ourselves for the challenge; but there were so many stairs we lost count, so may false peaks we almost didn't think we'd make it and so exposed to sun and wind that we were burnt in the weirdest ways - all this struggle so that we can tell our stories. 

There is definitely something we can learn from our young members. These are the words of our 16 year old trekker Seri Ahern: 
"The trip honestly changed my outlook on life especially being a 16 year old girl stressing over exams, puberty, life, weather always doubting myself and thinking of the worst. I didn't think I was capable of climbing that mountain, I felt lost and found at the same time. Lost because my entire body was aching and cramping, but found because my mind was at peace as I went higher and higher, genuinely enjoying my time alone in the mountains with the breeze on my face, it really was like a completely different world. I try to apply what I did up there to what I do in my everyday life especially with academics. Not to have a mental block on my mind when I study, to take it as a challenge instead of a chore. I loved going at my own pace and being alone up there was an eye opener that I can do whatever I want If I put my mind to it. Thank you so much ATC for giving me the opportunity."
More pictures...

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Mount Rinjani
We are proud to have 12 inspirational women reach the peak of Mount Rinjani (3726m) at the end of April. Each woman rose above their personal challenges and pain to experience the breathtaking beauty that surrounded them. The pictures do not do justice to the views and companionship experienced. Over the 4 days of trekking in Lombok, Indonesia the girls sharing life stories, learnt much from each other, laughed, sang, danced around a campfire, as well as walking quietly, to find some inner peace with nature. 
The support we are able to provide each other when out in nature and our one common love of trekking bonds us closely together.
More pictures...

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The Twin Peaks Success of Batur and Agung in Bali.
On the 7th -9th May, 10 ladies took on 2 sunrises, 10 hours on the road, 16 hours + 22km trek, 29,500 steps, 136 floors climbed, 173 floors descended, 7878 calories burnt 》All in one weekend!

The 2 peaks challenge tested their courage, endurance, loyalty and ability to control emotions. They withstood pain and hardships and together displayed their ability to continue despite extreme fatigue, fear of the unknown, steep rocky terrain, the stress, lack of sleep, and so many other adverse conditions and horrid thoughts. 

They walked in total darkness in order to appreciate the light. Hours on a dirt path winding up through thick forest of trees, large steps & massive boulders, and survived the steepest and most dangerous part of the climb to watch the sun rising over Mount Rinjani from the summit of Mount Agung. Magical beyond belief!

We are proud to say to our Team Bali, you are a true hero not because of the size of your strength but by the strength of your hearts; for the support, encouragements and the patience you displayed throughout the trip. You smiled despite the torture, you gathered the power you needed despite the distress. Now that we have had time to reflect on what we have achieved, we feel stronger, braver and blessed that we have been given the opportunity to learn and to discover.  
More pictures...

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Jade Mountain
Team Jade have literally touched down in Changi from their last destination above the clouds. The spectacular views, the smiles and the much required support they get from one another reinforce the true spirit of Amazing Trekkers Club. Led by Lucy Mathews of Eat Train Love, the team members (Marilyn Lee, June Lim, Angela Teo, Nang KKH and Asmita Ranade) displayed plenty of guts and dedication, consistent hardwork and resilience. Many sleepless nights, $$$++ spent on trekking gear and equipment, countless hours training, annoying number of times you needed to unpack and pack again just to be sure you have enough number of socks and underwear...just to say "I was standing right there on that mountain peak". This group of beauties put their mental and physical strengths to the test and realised their full potential. As these frustrations and anxiety built up all the way from the foot of Bukit Timah Hill to the summit of Mount Jade, it took just one unforgettable sunrise to kiss all their angst away.  Well done to you all! Can't wait to hear more.
More pictures.

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There is nothing better than escaping Singapore for the day and hiking Lambak! A good challenge and a change from the norm. 

Most of this group of Amazing Trekkers began as first time hikers climbing Singapore's highest 'peak' - tiny Bukit Timah hill at 164m. Some never did any exercise when they began, some trained alone, with a friend or a family member. With the support of other women and loved ones, they have gone to conquer more challenging peaks like Mount Kinabalu, Mount Ophir/Gunung Ledang and Mount Batur. 

These 7 mountain explorers reached the summit of Mount Lambak together, constantly supporting one another and encouraging each other; offering a helping hand when needed. Congratulations Ani Ahmad, Fadilah Ali, Shailaja Shetty (Sangita), Kiran Kashyap, Shaz Abbas and Rozi Laino. Under the leadership and guidance of our Club Vice President Shah Ahern. You reached yet another peak!

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This group of ladies took to Gunung Lambak on the 22nd April for their Trek Training to climb Mt Jade (Taiwan), Lantau, Sunset Peaks & The Twins (Hong Kong) and Mount Agung (Bali). They were even joined by Junior ATC member Zoe Panayiotou! As always we are in awe of your dedication, strength and spirit! A great day.
 

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In April, our Trek Leader, Julia He held a fantastic evening session on essential Chinese language, culture, customs and etiquette. The objective of the workshop is to support our hikers going to Hong Kong and Taiwan.
Not only was it great fun, we were wowed by fellow trekker Anja, who was able to read an entire page purely in chinese characters and she has only been learning chinese with Julia for 2 months! To add to the fun, we had a competition picking up individual green bean using chopsticks, we were served yummy dimsum and green tea. And of course we learned lots of chinese!  

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ATC TREK TRAINING will help you achieve your goals of reaching 1, 2, 3 or more Peak(s), improve your performance and release more power.

Our Training programme is available to view on line. You can incorporate these activities into your current training programme and prepare your body to be hiking fit. To further assist you, we have partnered up with Eat Train Love, to provide you with extra endurance and fun bootcamps.
Alternatively, you can access our 6-week guide to train for your hike at home. Watch this space...In collaboration with Sonia Osborne and Eat Train Love, we are developing a quarterly motivation guide exclusively for our Expedition and Summit members. 
There is no excuse for you not to challenge yourself to set a new goal and to dream a new dream.

Get Strong with Sari takes place every Friday morning at 8:30am. The purpose of the workout is to build your strength by having you lift more weight than your own body weight. 
The class will help you realise your true potential, so you get to improve your performance in your  sport. Trekking requires strength, endurance and quick reaction to prevent a fall. Carrying 7kg backpack while trekking requires not just strength but a 'can-do' attitude! 

The class is based on body fundamental movements and we are going to use equipments such as TRX, Kettle Bell, Weighted Ball, and Prowler. It is a moderate to high intensity level and proper recovery time is part of the training!

At the end of the class you should feel like a sexy, bad-ass, strong woman who is ready to conquer your mountain!

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We are putting together a team for the Spartan Race on 18th November 2017. It will be in Malaysia but the exact location is yet to be announced. In addition, we are ready to put together a SHOCKING but PRETTY in pink group for the Pink Ribbon Walk (7th October) in support of Breast Cancer Foundation. 
If you are interested in joining the team, please email info@amazingtrekkersclub.com.

Two amazing offers for you as ATC members. For more information please contact Shiyun at +65 90703144 or limshiyun@me.com

1. Summit Planners Medic Pte Ltd extends its complimentary Medical Concierge Services to ATC 

2. Manulife Ready is the FIRST Whole Life insurance plan in Singapore that rewards you for being healthy! Enjoy premium discounts when you keep healthy with ATC!

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Muscle is SO important! 
Our muscle determines our metabolism (i.e. our ability to burn calories doing nothing!). It also determines how strong we are, along with our body shape, tone and posture.
Sonia gave a fun, informative talk on all you need to know to improve your metabolism, and also to start feeling stronger and looking more toned, including:

• Foods that build vs foods that sabotage your muscle
• The importance of protein – what proteins are, what types are best, where to buy them from, how much you need
• Vegetarian proteins – which ones are best and how to include them into your meal plan
• Resistance training versus cardio
• Other lifestyle strategies that are vitally important

What's more, all proceeds ($500) went to the Tam Charity Fund  (http://helptam.peatix.com/)

More events to come... watch this space

Sonia's Coconut Tortillas 
I have my clients "swapping" their supermarket wraps for these tortillas (they are gluten and dairy free and without all of the nasty preservatives and additives). Try them for dinner with a homemade chili, guacamole and salad! 

(N.B. You can get coconut and arrowroot flour from the health section at Cold Storage - Bob's Red Mill brand)

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• 2 Teaspoons melted ghee or melted coconut oil
• 2 Tablespoons (15 mL) water
• 1/2 cup arrowroot powder (or tapioca flour)
• 2 Teaspoons coconut flour 
• Pinch sea salt

Method:
Crack the eggs into a medium-sized bowl and whisk in the melted ghee/oil and water.
Add the dry ingredients—arrowroot, coconut flour and salt—and beat well to combine.
In a small skillet/fry plan, over medium heat, pour in about 1/6 of the batter and immediately roll it around to evenly coat the bottom. The tortilla should start to pull away from the edges as it cooks.
Cook for 1 minute on each side.
If saving for later, cool completely and store in a plastic bag or airtight glass container.

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Tania Schnuppe is hosting FREE HORMONE BALANCING WORKSHOPS on:

• 27th May 2pm-4pm

Find out why our hormones are out of whack, how we can balance them plus and how to gain peak health. Walk away feeling motivated and ready to take action.  
Tania is offering ATC members a 20% discount on the Hormone Detox. Use the code ATC2016. 

Sign up now at http://taniaschnuppe.com/workshops/ Tel. 82664940.

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Lynne Atherton (ATC Founding Member) climbed Gunung Ledang (1276m) with friends during the Easter Holidays. She loved the challenge. "It's not a typical hike - more like a real life game of snakes and ladders! The trail starts by winding upwards through the jungle and then the more strenuous part begins. To reach the summit, it is necessary to climb up rock faces using a combination of ropes and ladders. It's a challenging hike but an amazing feeling when you reach the summit!"
ATC are going to Ledang again on August 25th/26th for Kilimanjaro and Everest Base Camp training. Do let us know if you are keen to join the group.

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Bravo to ATC member Fotini Paraskakis for successfully summitting Mt Rinjani (29th Apr-3rd May trek) and then finishing Spartan Race in the same week. What an inspiration!
And our trek leader, Julia He was on our Lantau Peak + Sunset Peak + Dragon's Back (HK) expedition (29 April - 1st May) and then completed the ultimate Spartan Race challenge.
Powerful and Strong ATC Women.

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Welcome to our new overseas member Zhibek Narikbayeva, who was originally from Kazakhstan and now lives in Dubai. This busy lady is a mum of 3 children, a lawyer, is running a mortgage company in Dubai, one of the founders of the Public Charity Foundation, Kasiyetty zhol, which helps children suffering from cerebral spastic infantile paralysis and most importantly is addicted to Muay Thai and TREKKING! We can't wait to get hiking with her soon... in July, to Mount Fuji.

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ATC is all the better for new member Kiran Kashyap. She is a Family Physician, specialising in Family Medicine and has been running a clinic in the East for many years. "I try to practise what I preach, which is a balanced lifestyle with regular exercise and quality time with family and friends. I enjoy outdoor exercise like walking and running and love to travel."
Kiran is our medical advisor for Everest Base Camp and was superb at our first Everest gathering last weekend, providing the ladies with essential information and answering many of their medical queries.
Kiran is a 3rd generation Singaporean, married to a wonderful supportive husband who loves trail running. She has two lovely girls, 16 & 12, who love to act and dance. 
"When I was introduced to ATC, I was thrilled to find a group of very motivated and friendly women who strive to lead active and fulfilling lives. I look forward to the training activities, trekking and to developing friendships with the lovely women of ATC." Welcome Kiran!

We welcome Ani into the ATC Team. She has been dreaming about this opportunity and has been inspired by the possibilities.  A huge asset to this team, Ani is passionate about meeting new people and finding ways to help them have an uplifting experience. 

We look forward to seeing you on the trail soon. In the meantime if you have any questions, please get in touch.



The ATC Team,
Hazleen, Shah, Becca & Ani