As its name suggests, the challenge consisted of climbing the highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales - Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Mount Snowdon, respectively. The physical test of endurance was part of a collective effort arranged by Katherine Jardine, a Senior Associate within the Professional and Executive Risk Solutions team, to raise £5,000 for Cancer Research UK and MacMillan Cancer Support.
Scaling a combined total of 26 miles (42km) and covering a vertical ascent of 9,843ft (3,000m), the journey began with a long drive to Fort William on Thursday, where the team met their mountain guide, Jonathan, who laid out the plan of action for the next day.
The Challenge Begins: Ben Nevis
Friday morning saw an early start for the team, fueling up with a quick breakfast before setting off for the base of Ben Nevis just after 7am. With clear skies and the weather on their side, the team began their first ascent with a steady pace, energised by Lucozade Sport, and reached the summit within just three hours.
Stopping for all of five minutes to take in the beautiful views, time was of the essence and the team headed right back down the mountain - with some team members making it back to base in under five hours. From there, it was straight on the coach for the long journey to the next destination - Wasdale in the Lake District.
Scafell Pike in the Dark
Arriving in Wasdale just before 8pm, the team set off for the summit of Scafell Pike as the sun began to set, making it a night climb under head torches. The ascent was steep and incredibly tough for the team but they powered through and reached the summit within a couple of hours.
Battling fatigue, the descent was no easy feat, but the team’s determination saw them complete the second peak just before midnight, with sore knees and tired legs but smiles all around. As exhaustion began to creep in, the team jumped back on the bus for what little sleep they could muster on the way to Snowdonia.
The Final Push at Snowdon
The team got to Snowdonia around 5am on Saturday, with a mix of tiredness and excitement filling the air. A beautiful sunrise greeted the team which spurred some tired legs on for the final climb. Though energy levels were waning, the team rallied together.
Less than three hours later, they reached the summit of Mount Snowdon. But there was no time for celebrations yet and with wobbly legs and aching knees, the team made their descent to finally cross the finish line. Following the completion of the challenge, Katherine said,
“I am extremely proud of the team for their efforts in completing the challenge. This really was both mentally and physically challenging and you really had to dig deep at moments to get through.”
Supporting Two Terrific Causes
Crediting the amazing team for keeping spirits high, Katherine is also proud of how much money the team managed to raise. After setting an initial target of £5,000, the team raised over £15,000 for two incredible cancer charities.
Cancer affects us all in some way and that is why the team chose to support Cancer Research UK and MacMillan Cancer Support. Whether it’s the search for groundbreaking treatments or providing vital emotional and financial support, these two charities are doing incredible work. Katherine concluded,
“We cannot thank everyone enough for their extremely generous donations to two charities that provide invaluable support to anyone affected by cancer.”
We are proud to contribute to their missions and every pound raised brings us closer to a future where cancer is no longer the dreaded word it is today.
All in
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