“Each of the seven summits is a big dream of every aspiring mountaineer. Everyone who loves mountaineering wish to stand on top of each of the seven summits,” he said.

“To me, it’s been a dream for many many years, so it is a dream come true, a dream in the making for 12 years. I remember in my early 20s I printed A3 posters of mountains I wished to climb in my bedroom. Kilimanjaro and Elbrus are 2 of them!”

“The main reason I decided to climb both mountains back to back is acclimatisation. After summiting Kilimanjaro and gaining high alititude acclimatisation, the second mountain would be a little ‘easier’ since the body will still be acclimatised, therefore increasing chances of success.”

“The best time to climb both Kilimanjaro and Elbrus happens to be in August, so it made sense to go straight from one expedition to the other.”

Asked about some of his exciting moments, Ryan said that it’s really about the whole journey, starting off from the dream, to the preparation, and the final culmination.

“Every climb is a journey, it is not only about the summit but the whole journey – starting from the dream, believing in your dream, preparing for your dream, training, and finally the execution,” he said.

“With such a long process, the climax of the summit is surreal and a culmination of emotions.”

“I feel lucky that both mountains allowed me to reach their summit, in good weather and unscathed. I am honoured especially because it is such a tough feat and its a first for any Maltese mountaineer to bag two of the seven summits within two weeks!”

“Big mountains give you this huge sense of accomplishment, and teach you in very raw ways how to celebrate basic things of life, like your own health, nature, relationship with other climbers and also the beauty up there which very few people get to see.”

And of course, with such big expeditions, challenges are set to come up along the way – and while Ryan completed both summits without any detrimental health effects, he witnessed others experiencing collapse. 

“On the Kilimanjaro expedition, after sumitting successfully in good health and vibes, one of the team collapsed and had to be carried most of the way down to lower elevations until he felt better.”

“As team lead, together with two other guides we had to execute the job between 5,800m and 5,000m. This was quite a daunting task especially after the summit push.”

“On the Elbrus summit push, which is an average 12hr climbing and descending, one of the team also succumbed to altitutude while we had to call for rescue at 5,000m.”

“Parting ways with a fellow climber is not easy and can play tricks on your mind as well.”

On the other hand, some challenges were present when it comes to entering Russia, as a lot of uncertainties needed to be ironed out in due time.

“But where there is a will there is a way, I really wanted to make it happen against all odds, and managed.”

“Other challenges would be those related to the mountain; the elements, the altitude, being away from all comforts – it all takes its toll on you, but it is to be expected. We dont go to the mountains for a comfortable ride.”

And finally, Ryan’s message for people out there was quite simple: follow your dream.

“Always follow your dreams relentlessly, and keep chasing them till you make them real.”

“When it comes to mountaineering, always start with smaller climbs while you gain experience with high altitude. It takes time, energy and dedication – but in the end it is all possible.”

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