Guadalupe Peak to be Conquered for Alzheimer’s

The highest peak in Texas is scheduled to be conquered on June 20^th to raise funds for the Alzheimer’s Association, as part of the Alzheimer's Association's "The Longest Day" Fundraiser Campaign.

Clayton Smith and his Summit Texas team are planning to hike to the top of Guadalupe Peak, 8, 871 feet above sea level.

"We have decided to hike the tallest peak in Texas to honor all who are fighting Alzheimer’s today, and all those in our memories,” says Smith.  “But we also want to be a part of creating a future without Alzheimer’s."

Guadalupe Peak is located in the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, and is part of the Guadalupe Mountains range in southeastern New Mexico and West Texas.

“June 20^th is not just any day to climb,” says Sarah Ethridge, Longest Day Manager with the North Central Texas chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association. “June 20^th is the summer solstice, the longest day of the year.  For all of us at the Alzheimer’s Association, The Longest Day is when people across the world come together to fight the darkness of ALZ through a challenge of their choice. Together, we will use our passion to raise funds and awareness for the care, support, and research efforts of the Alzheimer's Association.”

The Summit Texas team is made up of a group of friends and family who enjoy adventures and doing hard things that test bodies and minds. “We are a team of marathon runners, garage gym competitors, and former athletes turned weekend warriors. We are nurses, teachers, and public servants who thrive on lifting up others in need,” says Smith.

Saturday’s weather in Culberson County, Texas, where Guadalupe Peak is located, is forecast to hit 95 degrees.  To make the climb more difficult, the Summit Texas team will be carrying added weight (up to 50-60 pounds) to turn the hike into what’s known as a Ruck.

“Besides the extra weight, we’ll battle a mountain known for its high wind and also dodge rattlesnakes,” says Smith. “It will be difficult, but it doesn’t compare to the challenges of those living with Alzheimer’s or other dementias and their loved ones.”

For more information, or to make a donation click HERE or contact Sarah Ethridge  817-556-1048 sethridge@alz.org  or Clayton Smith 817-415-2433.

About the Alzheimer’s Association

The Alzheimer’s Association leads the way to end Alzheimer’s and all other dementia – by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's and all other dementia. Visit alz.org or call the 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.

To register yourself or a team to participate in "The Longest Day" click HERE