Albie-Junior Thomas, a determined four-year-old amputee, has achieved an incredible feat – he has become the youngest person to scale Snowdon, battling through snow and gale-force winds. His inspiring climb is a testament to his indomitable spirit.
Albie was born with a condition that resulted in a deformed foot, and he had to undergo an amputation. However, this setback hasn’t deterred him. Since the age of two, he has been fearlessly racing around on a prosthetic limb, and now he dreams of competing in the Paralympics.
Joined by his supportive dad, Daniel, Albie embarked on this remarkable adventure up Wales’ highest peak. Despite the stormy weather conditions caused by storm Arwen, they conquered the 3,560ft Snowdon together. Albie’s determination and resilience are truly awe-inspiring.
Daniel, Albie’s loving father, expressed his unwavering support for his son’s dreams. He believes that Albie’s ambition to participate in the Paralympics deserves every ounce of his dedication and encouragement. He envisions a future full of thrilling adventures as they travel the world together, engaging in trekking and running.
Albie’s contagious enthusiasm and strength are evident to anyone who encounters him. He possesses a natural talent for inspiring others and setting an example for boys his age. During their climb up the Pyg track, Albie’s innocence and humor shone through as he innocently remarked, “I thought there was supposed to be a big mountain!”.
Born on December 3, 2016, with fibula hemimelia, Albie’s left foot deformity led his parents to make a difficult decision. They were given the choice between amputation or leg lengthening through pinning. Opting for amputation at 15 months old, Albie’s parents made the choice that they believed would provide him with the best quality of life.
Albie’s dad, Daniel, found solace and inspiration in meeting an amputee at the gym who had gone on to become a strongman. Witnessing this man’s achievements made the decision to have Albie’s foot amputated easier. Despite his initial feelings of guilt and pain, Daniel quickly realized that he needed to focus on supporting Albie in achieving his dreams. To fulfill his promise, Daniel made significant changes in his own life, becoming a personal trainer and transforming his joinery business into a gym and fitness centre.
Albie adapts to life as an amputee with remarkable speed. At just two years old, he was already confidently striding about on his prosthetic leg. His passion lies in running, a sport that he shares with his dad. Their shared love for running has brought them closer, with Albie even joining his dad for the first mile of each of the seven marathons Daniel ran in seven consecutive days last year.
Albie’s recent encounter with Prince Charles, where he shared his Paralympic dreams, further fuelled his determination. The royal wished Albie the best of luck, cementing the belief that he is on the right path.
The challenge of hiking up and down Mount Snowdon was an arduous test of their strength and endurance, but Albie and his dad completed it in an impressive five hours and 23 minutes, including a 20-minute stop at the summit. They tackled the challenging Pyg track up the peak and descended via the Llanberis track, finishing the hike in under five hours.
Their journey doesn’t end there. The next challenge on their horizon is the formidable three peaks challenge. Albie and Daniel are eager to conquer new heights and inspire others along the way.
