Notre Dame medical students attempt stair-climbing world record

Two University of Notre Dame Australia medical students will attempt to break a world record by running up and down Jacob’s ladder in Western Australia’s Kings Park for 24 hours. Jonathan Hague and classmate Bernard Cregan will try to break the Guinness World record for the most height climbed in 24 hours by attempting to ascend the popular 43 metre stair climb approximately 350 times. The current world record stands at 15,000m set in 2004 when Kurt Hess ascended the Swiss Esterli Tower 333.3 times. Jonathan, a national volleyball and beach volleyball player, was first introduced to Jacob’s ladder in 2005 when he moved to Perth from Adelaide for his studies. “For me it is the perfect interval training for fitness, as each lap pushes your heart rate slightly higher until you max out,” he said. Jonathan’s idea of a Jacob’s Challenge formed at the end of last year. After consulting Guinness World Records, he has been training progressively harder with Bernard to prepare for the ‘absolute pain-fest’. The pair are now looking forward to the challenge. “I am heading into the unknown but can’t wait to find my limit wherever that lies on Jacob’s ladder,” Jonathan said. Whilst attempting a world record the students will also be raising money for Variety Club WA, supporting sick, disadvantage and special needs children. “We wanted to do something beneficial, not just the challenge. It will be a great way to raise money and awareness for the work of Variety WA - whilst attempting something a little crazy,” Jonathan said