The challenge was, and still is, to summit the 15 highest peaks in Wales in a 24 hour period. No transport between them, just a 30 mile trail starting at 4am, covering 15 hills and mountains each over 3,000 feet in height.
We trained in snow, we trained in the baking sun, and in June 2008 we set off from Pen-y-Pas to tackle the challenge. Sadly, after 8 hours of sustained heavy rain and hail, thick hill fog, and gusts of 60mph the event organisers abandoned the event with the team (Jason, Matt, Ross, Dave and Dave) on the 7th peak. On the bright side, even in zero visibility and driving rain Matt Rickwood was somehow able to choose an escape route that led to a good pub... honestly, the man finds beer like a migratory swallow finds Africa.
So on 18th July 2009 we'll be heading back to the hills, this time joined by Steve and Andy, determined to complete the challenge. We'll be training over the coming months, and can't wait to get out there and give it another go!
Of course, it's not all about the fun of blistered feet, knee-crunching descents and physical exhaustion. There's also a serious point to all this. The eikon charity continues to help young people in crisis and we'd like to thank all who gave so generously this time last year. However, like the 15 peaks, the challenges eikon helps young people face are also still there, so we ask you to dig deep once again and support eikon in their work this year.
Many thanks,
Jason, Matt, Dave, Dave, Steve and Andy
