After Gunung Kinabalu, porter conquers Chamonix ultra-trail

AFTER more than a year of training for one of the world's toughest ultra-trails, Gunung Kinabalu porter Daved Simpat crossed the finish line in Chamonix, France — carrying far more than just a personal achievement.

The 44-year-old completed the gruelling 174km Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc in 28 hours, 53 minutes and four seconds last month.

The feat reflects the strength, discipline and perseverance Daved developed while carrying climbers' loads up and down the mountain.

"Gunung Kinabalu has shaped me and is part of my life," he told the 'New Straits Times'.

At 4,095m above sea level, Gunung Kinabalu has served as Daved's workplace and training ground for most of his adult life.

The same principles he adopted for Gunung Kinabalu apply to ultra-trail — knowing when to run and when to walk, conserving energy and, most importantly, refusing to give up when the going gets tough.

As the first of seven Malaysians to cross the finish line after almost 29 hours, his thoughts turned to family, friends and those who had supported him.

The father of two from Kampung Himbaan in Ranau hopes his achievement inspires fellow porters and Sabah's youngsters.

Daved takes pride in his roots as a porter and does not view it merely as a stepping stone to becoming an international athlete.

"I want to show that our background is not a barrier. From a mountain in Sabah, a porter can also stand on one of the biggest ultra-trail stages in the world."

Daved said he was proud to bring the names of Sabah and Malaysia to the international stage.

He believes Sabah has much to offer — from its mountains and forests to its talented people and untapped potential.

His message to the young people in Sabah is simple: dream big, regardless of where you come from or what you do for a living.

For Daved, going from carrying heavy loads on Gunung Kinabalu to completing one of the world's toughest races proves that hard work, confidence and perseverance can take you further than you ever imagined.