McKay is set to climb some of the highest mountains across each of the seven continents over the next three years as part of the challenge. In August he completed a practice summit of Italy’s highest mountain, Gran Paradiso.
In 2022 McKay will take on Kilimanjaro (Tanzania), Mount Elbrus (Russia) and Aconcagua (Argentina), with Denali (Alaska), Mount Vinson (Antarctica), Carstensz Pyramid (Indonesia) and finally, Everest (Nepal) set to follow in 2023 and 2024.
His aim is to raise awareness of mental health issues after losing his best friend Peter to suicide in 2008. Speaking on the matter he said: “When Peter passed away, I put on a brave face but it really was a difficult time for me. MIND provided me with the guidance I needed to get me through it and come to terms with what had happened.
“With lockdown and isolation, the past year has been particularly hard on everyone’s mental health, so the support offered by charities such as MIND is more important than ever. Hopefully, this challenge will inspire someone who is struggling to make that call or have a much-needed conversation they may not have otherwise had.”
With the Electrolux Professional logo on his climbing gear, he will update his followers with regular blogs and videos documenting his ascent to each summit.
For more information on the challenge and to donate, visit: www.sevensummitchallenge.com.