Teachers Attempt Welsh 3000’s
By
Leanne Hyland
Outdoor headlines
27 May 2010 14:58
A group of intrepid teachers have decided to get out of the classroom this summer and take on the Welsh 3000’s challenge to raise money for charity.
The walk involves the ascent of all 14 peaks above 3000ft in North Wales with a total distance of 26 miles and overall ascent of 11,500ft.
Head of outdoor education and co-creator of the challenge Simon Parry said, “Being teachers we have a range of skills, a mathematician to help with the calculations, a geographer to read the map and a biology teacher to name every muscle that will hurt by the end”.
A step up from single mountain hikes, with many peaks and terrains to master, good fitness levels are crucial to complete this prestigious challenge.
We spoke to Simon to find out how the team are feeling about “The 14 peaks”.
What made you decide to take on this challenge?
Last year a member of my family was diagnosed with cancer. I wanted to do something to help my family and other sufferers. Co-creator Simon has a sister with MS and wants to raise money for her therapy centre.
What past experience of outdoor pursuits do you have between you?
Three of us have our Walking Group Leader. I’m working towards my Mountain Leader and doing some climbing. A few members of our group are trying to get their kayaking qualifications.
What is your favourite hill to train on and why?
In the UK, I think probably Dartmoor for me I love the remote feeling you get when you’re on the Moor.
What part of the challenge are you most concerned about?
Crib Goch is my greatest concern. There is so much to think about. I mean making sure your hands are in the right position, your feet and basically staying on!
How do you feel about making it to the top?
It will be a mixture of shear exhaustion and complete elation at having made it. There are a lot of personal goals over this weekend as well.
What training are you doing to get ready for the challenge?
I have done a fair amount of walking and swimming. We need to give ourselves the best chance to complete this challenge and some members of the team are doing there upmost to ensure this.
What are your fitness levels like?
There are people who have never climbed mountains on this scale or within time limits, some are fit some not so fit, some experienced, some not a clue, all the peaks have a risk but can we do it - yes we can!
What do your students think about the challenge?
We will make sure all the students are aware of the challenge and encourage them to think about raising money for good causes and helping them get out in the fresh air themselves.
Have you taken part in anything like this before?
Two of our members took part in the three peaks challenge last year. I am a complete novice myself, so I will be looking to them for their experience.
What most excites you about doing the Welsh 3000's?
The thrill of the challenge is exciting. Being in the mountains with a bunch of mates is a great way to spend the weekend, if we raise our £2000 for each charity the pain, exhaustion and relief will be worth it.
To sponsor the team or for more information go to http://www.justgiving.com/SnowdoniaBentley