Scaling new heights for a cause

At KUKA, we’re not only proud of our innovative robotic solutions but also of the accomplishments of our employees. Together with his friend Ulrich Seitz, KUKAn Markus Letroe conquered towering mountains and pushed their physical limits. Read here why they did it and what they experienced on their journey.

Guest author

11 July 2023

Society

Reading Time: 3 min.

By Charlotte Engels

Markus Letroe and Ulrich Seitz have been close friends for over 25 years. A seasoned adventurer, their friendship has seen them conquer various challenges, from grueling hikes and mountain ascents in Chile and Bolivia to cycling expeditions to renowned peaks such as the Zugspitze – the highest mountain in Germany. Now, they set their sights on a new target - Everest on the Nebelhorn.

Sunset on the Nebelhorn : Markus Letroe and his friend Ulrich Seitz hiking for a good cause.

A quest for heights and purpose

Their objective was to hike the height and length of Mount Everest while remaining in Germany. The chosen path for their monumental challenge involved a grueling ascent up the Nebelhorn and the Rubihorn, to be repeated five times. This demanding route spanning approximately 94 kilometers and an astounding 9,000 meters of altitude difference presented a formidable test of endurance. The duo’s goal? To complete this daunting task within a remarkable 24-hour timeframe.

Markus’ and Ulrich's objective was not only to test their own limits but to support those in need. They dedicated their ambitious endeavor to raise funds for the Bunte Kreis Augsburg and the St. Nikolaus Children's Hospice, organizations that provide crucial support to sick children and their families during challenging times. Their commitment to this cause has touched the hearts of many, spurring an outpouring of donations from friends, family, and well-wishers.

Mount Everest: The two friends have traveled the height and length of the world's largest mountain.

A dislocated finger and out of water

Markus, fully aware of the arduous path that lay ahead, dedicated weeks to rigorosus training, often beginning his day with his friend Ulrich at the crack of dawn to conquer Tegelberg, a mountain where they used to practice, before heading to work.

On the tour itself, the "Everesting am Nebelhorn", the two friends had some difficult moments right at the start. Just a few hours after the start of their tour in the early evening, Markus fell, skinned his knee and also dislocated his finger. But even that couldn't stop the duo. According to Markus, the hardest part isn't the physical pain either, but the mental challenge. "If you really have the will, it's amazing what you can accomplish," he said after finishing the challenge, adding, "If your mind is motivated, your legs will follow."

They also got motivation from friends and family via Whatsapp, as well as from Markus' wife, who was also a great support when they ran out of water in the second half of the 24 hours. And, of course, the good cause that moved them to do the tour.

After 27 hours and 30 minutes, the hikers have reached their destination.

The duo’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that even the smallest contributions can make a monumental difference in the lives of others, but also that, according to Markus′s favorite quote by Nelson Mandela: “It always seems impossible until it's done.”.