Men Verses Mountains
The challenge has been completed
and the mountains are defeated!
On Friday 29th- Sunday
31st May a group of 20 men from church, ages ranging from 16-72 set
off to face the 3 Peaks Challenge in the Yorkshire Dales in North Yorkshire. Climbing
Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough, just over 24 miles in total, the men
accomplished the challenge in separate groups but both groups completing it
under twelve hours. Being together with beautiful surrounding scenery meant
that the group made new friendships and encouraged each other along the way.
Tim Dolding said: “It was great to spend time with a bunch of
guys encouraging each other on and chatting about life. It was a great
opportunity for guys of all ages to have a great fellowship together with a
common goal.”
They set off Friday morning,
arrived at the campsite and helped each other set up the tents. Not long after
they explored the surrounding area and village of Settle nearby and like most
men would, they settled down for the evening in the local pub for a carvery.
The next morning saw the group up
bright and early at 6:00am and each tucked into a warm bowl of porridge before
setting off at 6:45 for a warm up walk and 7:00am for the first mountain which
took over an hour to reach the top. The day saw them climb all three peaks. Tim
also said: “It’s not for the faint hearted but a great day none the less.”
“I would absolutely do it again
as soon as I can feel my legs!” said James Simpson. Looks like some are eager
to get back up there. Some of the men even set up donation pages and Tim
Dolding has raised £221 to date for cancer research. Not only has it brought
the men closer together but it has raised money for such worthy causes.
“It was amazing. One thing I
learnt is that I now know I could do a full marathon!” commented Alex Doodey.
To all those
who took part we congratulate you on your fantastic achievement. We look
forward to seeing what other challenges you will face in the future.
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| The group before the climb |
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| At the campsite |
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| Starting the walk |
