Ben Nevis - The highest one first

The Four Peaks Challenge, which must be completed in 48 hours, is all about team work. Each team of four comprises 3 climbers and 1 driver. The driver ensures that the climbers have all their basic needs met such as food, water, snacks, climbing gear, change of clothes etc. and in addition the drivers will climb the last peak. The three climbers have to assist each other on each climb. Each peak is not considered 'conquered 'until all team members have returned. If a climber is injured and unable to continue, the driver must be prepared to switch places with the climber (providing that the injured party is able to drive) to keep the team intact. If the injured  party is unable to take on the driving then the entire team must withdraw from the challenge.

Chesterton Hunnies Roadside Breakfast

The Chesterton Hunnies team met with their colleagues this morning (another three teams representing Chesterton Humberts) and after the team briefing and last minute instructions, they  set off at 8:00 from the hotel. They had a two and a half hour drive to get the team to the registration point for 11:30  in Fort William,  breakfast was eaten along the way.

For safety reasons, the climbers have staggered starting times which was given to them at the time that they 'signed their life away' at the registration post. The Hunnies time was 15:58 and they were all tagged to ensure no cheating. They then had plenty of time for a leisurely lunch -probably their last for a while; and last minute shopping.

 Ben Nevis is Britain's highest mountain at 4406ft (1344m). mist covers the mountain most of the time and if you think the girls are simply off for a summer hike, think again! Snow covers the mountain for 8 months of the year; often well into June and July, with average temperatures of -1 degree C (Brrrrr!!!). Good Luck Girls!!!

The start of the Challenge at Ben Nevis

The 48 hours started counting down at 15:58 this afternoon.  The walk to the summit is just over 5 miles so the team will have to complete the ten mile 'stroll' in these harsh conditions before they re-join their trusted driver. The average time taken in 2012 for the Ben Nevis climb was 4 hours 18 mins.  They will be expecting warm dry clothing and a hot drink on their return so Tanya, the driver will have it all ready for them.


The drivers refuel their vehicles and prepare them for the next leg, set up camp, brew a cuppa  and snatch forty winks ahead of their  5 1/2 hour, 235 mile scenic (in the dark) drive to Threlkeld Cricket Club near Helvellyn. where they will spend the rest of the  night.