After months of training and planning, the HMSG 3 Peaks Challenge began on the 31st May 2011. The team of 11 6th Form students and 11 staff met at school at 10am to make the 5 hour journey to Scafell Pike. This was to be our first challenge as the weather up on Ben Nevis had taken a turn for the worse with blizzards and gales and would not have been safe to climb.
At 1800 the sun was shining and we were raring to set off from Wasdale Head. The ascent was steep but we made it to the top in under 2 hrs. Making it to the bottom at about 10pm it was time for a quick change and the next leg of the journey through the night to North Wales in preparation for the 4am start.
As the sun was barely rising our group of surprisingly chirpy girls and staff prepared for what was deemed the ‘trickiest’ mountain, Tryfan. After a lovely stroll around a mountain lake and a gradual climb accompanied by some mountain goats, our vision of this mountain changed. A sheer drop and a lot of rocks. The last leg of the journey was not for the faint hearted so 4 girls set up a shelter behind a wall whilst the rest continued. A valiant effort by all especially considering it wasn’t even 9am yet!
Two mountains down and one to go. Only time for a brief name on the ground, in the car park before we attempted Snowdon.
Snowdon was to be our favourite, even if we couldn’t see more than about 5 people in front at times! Despite this many walkers were still braving the elements and encouraging us on their way down which gave us confidence to continue. At this point injuries were kicking in and muscles were really cramping up but not one member gave up. Every single girl and member of staff that began the challenge made it to the summit with smiles and tears too!
The descent was the most testing leg of the journey. The Watkins path – a notoriously difficult route with little visibility and slippery rocks underneath, tested everyone’s determination.
The group never gave up as our charities were a great motivator. Thanks to great support from family and friends and the efforts of the whole group – girls, staff and volunteers we have managed to raise over £1500 pounds for SSAFA and Help For Heroes. Hopefully the legacy will live on and next year there will be another challenge to look forward to!
Rhiannon Yr 13
