A member of Frilford Heath Golf Club is attempting a record-breaking ascent of Mount Everest at the age of 67, following a life-threatening health condition.
Oxfordshire-based Tim Batstone is currently undertaking the expedition, aiming to become the second oldest British climber to reach the summit, surpassing Ranulph Fiennes. Alongside the climb, he is seeking to raise £250,000 for charity.
The challenge comes after a serious health battle. Five years ago, Batstone began experiencing daily blackouts caused by his heart periodically stopping. Despite being fitted with a pacemaker, the episodes continued until he was prescribed anti-seizure medication.
“Miraculously, it stopped,” Tim said. “I haven’t had an episode for over two years. I’m in awe of the medical science that made that possible. Having come through something like this, you realise you’ve been given another chance. This is about making the most of it.”
His fundraising efforts will support Be Free Young Carers, the 2026 Captains’ Charity of Frilford Heath Golf Club, which provides assistance to young carers, as well as Epilepsy Research Institute UK.
“The connection between the brain and the heart is still not fully understood,” he said. “If I can get close to my fundraising target, I hope to help fund research that could save lives. Simultaneously, I am honored to support Frilford’s Captains’ Charity, Be Free Young Carers, who do incredible work for the unsung heroes in our local community.”
Batstone is no stranger to endurance challenges, having previously windsurfed around Britain over 70 days and summited Aconcagua in Argentina despite a knee injury.
For the Everest expedition, he is being guided by Kenton Cool, who has reached the summit 19 times. Currently in Nepal, Batstone is undergoing acclimatisation ahead of his attempt on the 8,848-metre peak.
Russell Stebbings, Managing Director at Frilford Heath Golf Club, said: “Tim’s challenge is an inspiration to us all. While we’ll certainly miss him on our fairways while he is away, we couldn’t be prouder to have him representing the club on such a grand scale. His support for our 2026 Captains’ Charity speaks volumes about Tim’s character and we wish him well, the whole club is rooting for him.”
To help reach his fundraising target, Batstone is also offering motivational speaking engagements upon his return, with all proceeds going to charity.
