On Friday 23rd 8 Etone College staff joined with over 40 of our Matrix colleagues to take part in the Three Peaks Challenge. This gruelling challenge encompassesthe three highest peaks of Scotland, England and Wales, within an aimed 24 hour time limit including journey time.
The total walking distance is 23 miles (37km) and the total ascent is 3064 metres (10,052ft). The total driving distance is 462 miles. Whilst logistically it is a nightmare, the challenge itself is a test of personal strength, resilience and self-belief. To achieve these three mammoth mounds one after another, shows all of the values and skills required to be an Etone Learner.
With aim to raise over £20,000 as a team towards Birmingham Children’s Hospital, the Trust Charity of the Year. It was well worth the preperaiton and training, however when it came down to the event the sheer scale was daunting on our team. Our four drivers performed their duties excellently. Whilst not walking, their driving and support was what had made any of it possible. Keeping our spirits up when cheer was in short supply a massive shout out to Mr Gittings, Mrs Smith, Mr Sheikh and Mr Watts.
Ben Nevis – Elevation 1,345m, Distance 17km
Starting in the Scottish Highlands, our team set off at 6:45pm with a slight staggered start behind some of the other teams. Although not a race it was a proud moment to see our team push up the mountain in a very strong time. The climb itself was a real test as the challenge at point ranged from gentle paths to gruelling slates. As we summited the sun was shining on us and the views of Scotland were just stunning. However, with limited time to take it in we journeyed back to finish in a very strong position for the challenge:
UK Average time – 7-8 Hours
Etone Team time - 4 Hours, 57 Minutes
Scafell Pike – Elevation 978m, Distance 9.4km
As we entered Cumbria it was advancing on 8pm after some traffic concerns. With daylight fading fast we were determined to make it onto the mountain face before 8pm otherwise we may not have been able to continue safely. With a steeper incline, cooling temperatures and the heavens opening the climb became tougher and tougher still. With darkness descending about 1km before the summit there were more than mere thoughts of turning around. However, digging deeper we made it to the top with enough time for a quick picture and push back down. The descent became particularly troubling with the severity of the decline being further in question with the slippery terrain. Despite cold conditions we made it back with a time setting for us to really take on the last leg.
UK Average time – 5-6 Hours
Etone Team time - 3 Hours 5 Minuets
Snowden – Elevation 1,085m, Distance 13km
With the dawn breaking in the mini-bus it became clear that our 24 hour challenge was over. Due to traffic conditions and some mishaps along the way the elements out of our control had taken the wind out of our sails. However, with donations riding on this we dug even deeper and agreed to take on the Snowdon giant. What would have been a lovely Saturday walk at 6am was compounded with damp gear, tiring legs and aching bones. The combined age of our group being 216 across the 5 walkers it was a sheer sight to behold as we made it up to the top in record times. As a team we had been on this hard yet beautiful journey. Setting off on the final path with the rest of Team Matrix made it for an even more emotional journey. Finally coming down to cheers and triumphs form the minibus team, was something special.
UK Average time – 6-7 Hours
Etone Team time - 3 Hours 12 minutes
With fanfare, medals and even some tears the challenge was over. The teams had done it and we had smashed some personal records. A big thank you to the whole of the support team and Matrix team for the organising. It was something that we will never forget.
Of course, our fundraising journey continues. As does the challenges the doctors, nurses and midwives face at Birmingham Children Hospital. If you would like to donate please do so here: https://bit.ly/4dRj2U1
