Asked to lead a small group keen to take on this 40km challenge, I welcomed the chance but decided to ask my son, James if he wanted to come along and use the opportunity to work towards his mountain leader qualification. He not only agreed but took on all of the planning, communication with the group and technical / stats so sort after by these younger groups!
Last week, at 04.10 we reluctantly crawled from warm beds to head out in the pitch black and chilly temperatures to start the ascent on Whernside, Yorkshire’s highest peak at 736m. Surprisingly the climb was made easier by the lack of light and we summited before we would normally have finished breakfast! Spirits were high and the descent light work.
Now for the crux of the day – Ingleborough at 723m, only to discover some hurdles to jump for those less keen on exposed edges at height but a determination and limited options resulted in a second summit achieved still well on time for the required 12 hour deadline to succeed with the official challenge.
By now the day was forecast to be sunny, dry and pleasant . . . . the Yorkshire 3 Peaks however had other ideas and the low mist, drizzle and occasionally thick fog was set to stay until we were almost back to the car! Various aches and pains began to creep into tired bodies but the laughter, enthusiasm and drive never faltered, the chat was constant and the day was thoroughly enjoyable.
The final stage of the route was along the road. The 24 arches of the famous Ribblehead viaduct appeared in view to inspire and motivate us to the finish. James, with his Google Pace Pro, kept the pressure applied ensuring that a time of 11.44 saw all of us complete the whole challenge route. What an achievement and congratulations to all involved. A huge thank you from me to James too who made me very proud.
It's wonderful that Eastfield Lodge is so close to the 3 Peaks and is the perfect place to come back to for warm showers, luxurious beds and a welcoming fire. Aches and pains were soon forgotten and the next adventures under consideration already!!