Woman climbs Table Mountain 64 times in 64 days

"I'M SO excited to get to the end of this, and that I’ve made it one piece, it wasn't always easy but I’ve managed to get quite fit in the end, and I feel very strong, and ready to take on the world.

- THEOLIN TEMBO

So says Rondebosch resident Tania Morkel, 65, who successfully completed her challenge to climb up Table Mountain 64 times in 64 days.

She was motivated to do the challenge after overcoming immense odds.

In 2023, Morkel suffered a life-threatening 18-metre fall down a ravine in Table Mountain National Park (TMNP).

She was rescued by Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) and spent 23 days in ICU, recovering from multiple serious injuries, including spinal fractures, a brain haemorrhage, and internal organ damage.

Morkel said she suffered a punctured lung, and spent three weeks on a ventilator.

After regaining her strength, she felt a deep desire to give back to WSAR and TMNP.

Morkel said she previously served as a wildfire fighter with Volunteer Wildfire Services (VWS), and understands the volunteers’ dedication and financial sacrifices in responding to emergencies.