Everesting

Everesting in Yogyakarta

Elevation Gain: 9,220 m | Distance: 235 km | Time: 27 Hours 37 Minutes 18 Seconds

The route I took was about 1.64 km long per lap, with around 127 meters of elevation gain and an average gradient of 7.7%. It took roughly 150 reps up and down the same stretch of
road—until I knew it so well it haunted my dreams.

It all started when I got inspired by my friends Mas Maryadi, Udin/Arussetrum, and Mas
Bembenk, who completed an Everesting challenge in Yogyakarta last year. Just hearing the
word “Everest” sounds cold and bone-chilling—but after listening to their story, I realized it truly was exhausting, but also incredibly meaningful.

This journey began at 8:30 AM and finished the next day at 11:30 AM. The temperature ranged from 19°C to 43°C. I didn’t sleep at all. I ate five small meals, barely enough, since I lost my appetite. I relied mostly on isotonic and sugary drinks for energy.
Unlike other ultra-cycling adventures that usually take you through different routes, Everesting is done on the exact same path—over and over again. The biggest challenge isn’t just physical, but also mental: staying consistent, patient, and spiritually grounded while repeating the same climb until you reach 8,848 meters, equal to the height of Mount Everest.
Everesting might sound simple—just pick one hill and repeat. But in reality, it’s far from easy.

So, how did my journey go? Let me tell you the story. I hope this journey can ignite your own spirit.
The adventure began in Srumbung Village, a place that could be described as “edgy” compared to most rural areas. It’s a special village known for the warmth and uniqueness of its people.
Four of us—Irvan, Udin, Mas Bram, and I—visited Srumbung, Magelang, where Mas Arris was born. He and his friend Mas Canggih guided us around the village.
After some fun gravel riding on Srumbung’s iconic Roubaix-style rocky roads, Mas Arris treated us to a special meal. Full and rehydrated, the cyclist spirit within us was sparked again, and we started planning our next adventures—Sindoro, Clongop, Baron, and more. But then Arussetrum brought up the idea of Everesting—an extreme journey that immediately caught our attention, especially after hearing his past experiences.
He told us, “Everesting is simple. Just pick a climb and reach 9,000 meters of elevation
gain—without sleep.” That planted the seed of a dream in our minds, even though we weren’t sure if we could actually pull it off.

Later, Arussetrum sent me a DM with a post from @everesting featuring a quote from Tyler
Simon: “How do I put this incredible experience into words? Riding through the peaceful
night, witnessing both sunset and sunrise on my bike. Saturday was filled with
support and cheers—it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I believed in myself,
and I did it. I’m so proud.” – Tyler Simon
That quote made me wonder—could Everesting really be that epic?
I shared the post, and Mas Lopiez quickly commented, “So, when’s your Everesting?” I casually replied, “Saturday–Sunday, since I work Monday.” Unexpectedly, Arussetrum made a flyer—which went viral. With the hype already building, we decided to go through with it.
I prepped my bike thoroughly: regreased the bearings, refilled mineral oil, and did all sorts of maintenance that took half a day. Tired but determined, I kept in contact with my fellow riders, Arussetrum and Irvan. Our initial plan was to attempt a half-Everesting (4,425 m EG). We kept things simple: minimal gear, and agreed to meet the next morning at 5:30 AM at Apotek Kentungan.
I was the first to arrive. My setup was basic: Marin Gestalt Base, secondhand WTB Riddler tires, Tiagra groupset, Santic shoes, Cheji bib shorts, a jersey gifted by Mas Nur Pamungkas, and a cheap Rp100k saddle.

Soon Irvan and Arussetrum arrived, and we waited for Om Lopiez Sakti—the President of
Everesting Jogja. After everyone gathered, we rode slowly toward Tugu Udang and met up with Mas Sadam Husaen. Laughter filled the journey until we stopped for breakfast: rice with side dishes and fresh milk at Bu Gin’s warung. Then, we prepped our bikes and minds for the challenge ahead. In my heart, I whispered, “Bismillah, I’ve taken the first pedal stroke—there’s no turning back now.” I remembered Mas Mar’s words, “If you’re scared, don’t act brave. If you’re brave, don’t act scared.”

The first climb was tough. Technical issues like my chain skipping gears made it rough until lap I aimed for a gear ratio of 34-36/38 and a cadence of 85–90. The morning felt cool and
perfect for riding. I didn’t bring snacks or gels at first—just basic food—until lap 20.
From morning to noon, many friends showed up to support: Mas Maryadi and his wife, Mas
Lopiez, Mas Sadam, Mas Ian, Dhe Yuan, and more. Their presence made it all feel special.
I hit 1,000 meters EG in 2 hours, but then my body started craving more fuel. The midday heat was brutal, and finding shade was nearly impossible. Around 2:00 PM, I was exhausted but forced myself to eat.
At 2:30 PM, I reached 2,000 EG, just as Mas Maryadi arrived with fresh fruit. That gave me a second wind. As evening fell, the atmosphere grew tense. Fatigue brought strange hallucinations.

By night, Arussetrum and Irvan had to stop due to exhaustion and technical issues. I continued alone. The night was long and eerie, especially passing through a forest road. Thankfully, friends like Dhe Yuan, Mas Lopiez, Mas Grek, and later Mas Bram kept cheering me on—even cracking jokes to keep me sane.
The hardest part was between 5,000 and 6,000 EG—when both my mind and body were
breaking down. Dhe Yuan’s promise to cover my Audax fee if I finished 9,000 meters gave me renewed energy.
After surviving the terrifying night, dawn arrived like a blessing. I continued with a more stable mindset. By morning, joined by Mas Surya and El Bob (Mas Bob), my spirits stayed high. The final 6 laps were the most grueling but also the most meaningful.
On the final lap, friends were waiting at the finish line. I completed my Everesting challenge: 235 km, 9,000 meters of elevation gain, 27 hours, and 73 total laps. Mas Bob celebrated by pouring Coca-Cola over me—a symbolic victory moment. I felt a mix of pride, emotion, joy, and pure relief.
Huge thanks to all my friends for their amazing support—mentally and materially. And of course, thank you to myself, for pushing through and completing this journey at 22 years old.

Thanks a lot for reading my story until the end.
Be proud of yourself—because no one has walked this journey with you more than you. No matter your condition, whether weak or strong, just stay patient. You can make it through.
Flow like water.
Dream it. Do it. Enjoy it. Be grateful for it.