On Top Of The World

Eighty women from around the planet recently set a world record on the Swiss mountain of Breithorn (4,164m), forming the longest ever all-female rope team on their way to the summit. The attempt was part of Switzerland Tourism's 100% Women initiative, aimed at raising the profile of women in mountain and outdoor sports. We chat with a member of the record-breaking team, Singapore-based CHRISTINE AMOUR-LEVAR.

- Christine Amour-Levar

How did you hear about this 100% Women initiative, and why were you keen to get involved?

I was first contacted by a journalist friend of mine who put me in touch with the Switzerland Tourism folks here in Singapore. They thought I would be perfect for this initiative given my climbing/trekking experience and my passion for female empowerment. Because I love mountains, from the onset, I was keen and very excited. The 100% Women Peak Challenge with its goal of encouraging more women to push their limits on Swiss mountains and with the added objective of putting more women on top literally and figuratively, is right up my alley and very much in line with my values and interests.

Finally, being part Swiss on my father's side, I have a deep love for Switzerland and all things Swiss, so I had a strong connection to this project from the beginning. Ultimately this was a big part of why I was thrilled to collaborate on this inspiring initiative and share this unique world record with other talented and courageous women from around the world.

Who took part in the climb? Were you the only Singapore-based representative in the team of 80 women?

The other women who took part were from 25 countries and it was a mixed and eclectic crowd. We had a professional skier from India, a singer from France, a mountain guide from Iran and also one from Kazakhstan, a UN Women Goodwill Ambassador from Thailand, an activist from Egypt, a Swedish actress, a philanthropist from South Africa, a travel blogger from Canada, to name a few. The guides, organisers and photographers were also all women. Everyone was inspiring in their own unique way.