Boomerang complete the 3 peaks!

12th – 13th June saw Boomerang complete the national 3 peaks!

On Sunday 11th June Boomerang boarded the bus that would become our home for the next 48 hours. After a 13 hour drive up to Scotland, everyone tried to get a few hours sleep before waking up to a bowl of porridge and the sound of heavy rain on the coach roof.

At 5.30am, we started our hike up the highest mountain in the UK – Ben Nevis. 1,350 metres ascent, 5 miles, a waterfall (resulting in a few wet feet!) and a broken walking boot later, we reached the summit. With the temperature at minus 5, 50 knots winds and everyone’s waterproofs doing exactly the opposite of what they’re supposed to do, celebrations and photos were done as quickly as possible and the descent began. After another 5 miles, everyone was back on the coach trying to dry off for a quick lunch and then a 6 hour journey to the next part of the challenge.

Arriving at Gretna Green, we transferred from the comfort of the coach to a minibus to take us to the starting point of Scafell Pike. We then began our climb up the notoriously steep mountain, standing at 978 metres high. After experiencing yet another stream (and more wet feet), we made our way up the never ending route to the summit, crossing boulder fields along the way. By the time we reached the summit, it was total darkness and raining (again!) so after a few quick photos we made our way back down the mountain armed with head torches for light. The rain made the descent extra challenging with slippery rocks and steep grassy hills. After a few falls and some cointreau for dutch courage, we climbed back into the minibus and 2 hours later were reunited with the coach for a couple of hours sleep before reaching the final part of the challenge.

We then began the last part of the gruelling challenge up Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales. Perceptions of Snowdon as a nice, easy mountain soon vanished as we hiked, scrambled and rock climbed our way up the miner’s track. Rain and visibility made it particularly challenging (and a bit scary!) and the summit was a very welcome site. The final descent down the pyg track was very hard on the knees but morale kept everyone going and a few keen members of the team even ran the last mile!

The challenge was completed with a total walking time of sub 14 hours. 35 miles were hiked with a total ascent of over 3,000 metres. The challenge was a fantastic effort by everyone involved. Although it was tough, it was an incredible experience with lots of unforgettable memories.

The team would like to say an absolutely huge thank you to Romain at YOLO fitness who has been with us every step of the way through training and the challenge. We couldn’t have done it without you!

To see more photos of the challenge click here.