The Creation of 29029 and 'Everesting'

Originally posted on Men's Journal | By John Waechter | Last updated Jun 5, 2024 3:49 PM ET

'29029' - 'Everesting

Located in the Himalayas on the Nepal-Tibet border, Mt. Everest stands 29,029 ft., and is the highest mountain in the world. ‘29029’ was created by Marc Hodulich and Jesse Itzler. Colin O’Brady later joined Marc and Jesse in creating a truly unique and exceptional event known as “Everesting’.

'Everesting' is not a race against competitors, but rather a challenge of one's physical and mental abilities. 'Everesting' was created to be the anti-race – it’s about showing up, participating, and becoming a part of an incredible community.

'Everesting' takes place at beautiful ski resorts across the country during the summer months. The event challenges participants to climb the height of Mt. Everest, 29,029 ft. within 36 hours. Participants climb an established course, then take a gondola down, and repeat the course until they climb an aggregate of 29,029 ft.

Those that accomplish this feat receive the coveted ‘Red Hat’ – no places, just ‘Finishers’. 29029 Red Hats are not for sale, but awarded to those that accomplish this arduous feat. 'Everesting' does not recognize who achieves the Red Hat first or last - you earn the Red Hat, or you don't!

The 'Seven Summits'

The 'Red Hat' represents the ultimate 'Everesting' accomplishment, but six other mountains are recognized along the way! The event is structured to replicate climbing the 'Seven Summits' - the highest peak on each of the seven continents. Participants earn a medal that signifies the highest Summit they achieved within the 36-hour period. The smallest of the 7 Summits is Mt. Kosciuszko in Australia standing 7,310 ft. If an 'Everester' climbs this altitude within the allotted time period, they receive a 'Mt. Kosciuszko' medal.

The 29029 Founders

Marc Hodulich, the CEO of ‘29029, understands the grit required to accomplish extremely difficult endurance challenges. He knows how to prepare and train, and he knows how to suffer. Marc has finished the Leadville Trail 100 Run, Hennepin 100 Miler, Ironman Mt. Tremblant, and the Marine Corps Marathon - just to name a few!

Jesse Itzler also loves a challenge, having completed 20 consecutive New York City Marathons. Beyond endurance events, Jesse is a rapper-turned-entrepreneur who sold businesses to Warren Buffet and Coca Cola. His #1 bestselling book, 'Living With A Seal: 31 Days Training with the toughest Man on the Planet' gave insight into his zest for life and his passionate pursuit to challenge himself. Jesse notes, "I feel most alive when I'm challenged, when I'm pushed, when I'm forced to see what I'm made of."

Colin O'Brady is another accomplished endurance athlete. Colin is a world-record holding explorer, having accomplished the first solo crossing of Antarctica. He was the first to complete rowing across the Drake Passage, and he has reached the summit of Mt. Everest! These guys have created the ultimate endurance challenge by establishing a unique and compelling community.

This article first appeared on Men's Journal and was syndicated with permission.

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