23 Hours, 3 Mountains, 1 Cause: The National Three Peaks Challenge
3rd October 2024
After a postponed start due to snowy and dangerous conditions in June, we finally conquered the National Three Peaks Challenge at the end of August, all in under 23 hours! The event was part of our fundraising efforts for St Augustine’s Centre counting towards their All Together 24 Challenge. Through this challenge, we aim to cover a collective total of 24,901 miles—the circumference of the Earth—while raising £24,000 by the end of the year.
A huge shoutout goes to Jack, who tackled Ben Nevis like a champ. Despite a major injury preventing him from completing the entire challenge, his effort was crucial to the team. We also couldn’t have done this without our amazing drivers, Andy and Terry, who volunteered to drive nearly 1,000 miles, keeping us well-fed, motivated, and laughing throughout the weekend. Also, although Lewis couldn’t be with us, he was with us in spirit every step of the way.
Climbing Ben Nevis: The UK’s Highest Peak
- Height: 4,413 ft
- Time to summit: 4 hours, 55 minutes
Our adventure began at 7.30 am on Saturday, when we set off from St Augustine’s Centre for the 6.5-hour drive to Fort William, Scotland. Arriving in the early afternoon, we were blessed with clear skies and perfect conditions for our big climb.
Starting from the Visitor Centre along the Pony Track, the ascent of Ben Nevis offered breathtaking views across the Grampian Mountains. The stunning scenery kept our spirits high as we reached the summit, with all four of us—myself, Henry, Paul, and Jack—taking in the panoramic views. A quick hello from fellow National Three Peaker’s and we were on our way down in solid time, filled with optimism for what was yet to come.
Scafell Pike: A Midnight Ascent
- Height: 3,209 ft
- Time to summit: 2 hours, 56 minutes
After a long drive through the dark countryside, we reached Scafell Pike in the dark early hours of Sunday. Our starting point was the National Trust Wasdale Campsite, and with head torches on and fully charged, we set off into the night of the mountain.
While Jack couldn’t continue the climb due to his injury, the training from our previous Scafell attempt paid off. Henry, Paul, and I tackled the mountain swiftly despite some late incoming rain. With no time to waste, we made our way back down just before 5 am., waking up our dedicated drivers from their deep sleep in the van (sorry, but the road and challenge beckoned!).
Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon): The Final Push
- Height: 3,560 ft
- Time to summit: 3 hours, 53 minutes
After a brief nap and a much-needed Greggs breakfast stop (I’ve never eaten two pain au chocolat and two vegan sausage rolls so quickly in my life), we were back on the road, heading toward our final mountain—Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon).
Arriving at Pen-y-Pass in Snowdonia just before midday, we embarked on the Pyg Track under grey skies and intermittent rain. The weather, combined with exhaustion and travel sickness (mainly from Henry), made the climb a true test of endurance. The summit felt elusive, but knowing we were so close to completing the challenge kept us pushing forward.
As we began our descent via the Miners Track, the clouds started to clear, and we could finally see our finish line. Terry’s smiling face greeted us, and we finished the National Three Peaks Challenge with over an hour to spare!
Mission Accomplished: Thank You for Your Support!
We owe a massive thanks to TRU West Alliance and West Wallasey Fleet Hire Services for generously providing us with the perfect minibus at no cost.
We couldn’t have achieved this feat without the support of everyone who has donated so far. Thanks to your generosity, we’re on our way to hitting our fundraising goal of £2,400. Every donation brings us one step closer to our target. Donate here
If our journey inspires you, it’s not too late to join St Augustine’s All Together 24 Challenge. You don’t have to hike or run—any form of activity counts toward the total, whether it’s cycling, swimming, or even rock climbing! Join the Challenge
Thank you once again for all your support! We are already looking forward to the next challenge.
Thank you, Andy and Terry