A NEW York banking executive has died after rapidly hiking up and down a Wyoming peak in an “Everesting” challenge.
Dad of three Slava Leykind suffered a cardiac arrest during the event at Snow King Mountain in Jackson Hole.
The challenge sees contestants hike 1,500 ft up and down the mountain until they match the distance of climbing Mount Everest.
The world’s tallest peak stands at a vast 29,032 ft high.
But Leykind had completed six laps before first responders rushed to his aid.
Jackson Hole Fire and EMS rushed to the mountain at 11.28 pm to bring medical assistance.
He was taken to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho, where he sadly died on July 2, Jackson Hole News & Guide reported.
The 43-year-old died from an “electrolyte imbalance causing cardiac arrest” according to Teton County coroner.
Leykind lived in Westport with his wife and their three children.
He had worked for two decades as an executive at the New York City-based investment bank CG Sawaya Partners.
His obituary states: “Slava Leykind, aged 43, from Westport, died on July 2 due to complications incurred while taking part in a mountain endurance event earlier in the week.”
It goes on to describe him as a “perfect soulmate” to his wife Amy Keller Leykind and a “superhuman father” to their three kids.
The obituary further notes, “Although he achieved considerable professional success early in life, Slava considered his role as a husband and father his most significant accomplishment, passion, and source of pride.”
“He fervently supported his children, bringing love and a sense of calm to the wonderful chaos of a full house.”
Contestants in the Everesting challenge have complete to the feat within 36 hours.
The Everesting website says: “A straight shot up under the gondola makes this one of the most direct ascent routes in the 29029 family.
“Short and steep, this mountain asks for 19 climbs to reach Everest. The majority of the trail consists of hard packed dirt, gravel, and grass.
“The summit offers stunning views looking back at the Tetons.”
Leykind was born in Minsk, Belarus – then in the USSR – in 1982.
He emigrated to the United States in 1988.
His tragic passing comes after the owner of one of South Africa’s top game reserves was trampled to death by an elephant.
Chief Executive Officer FC Conradie, who co-owns the exclusive Gondwana Private Game Reserve, was charged at by the animal.
He was said by staff to have a “love for elephants and nature” and would often go out to photograph them.
