Ben Nevis followed by a long scenic drive...

Ben Nevis

Julia, Mark and Tanya in the Car Park at the base of Ben Nevis

Ben Nevis was shrouded in mist as the Peakishness Team had expected it to be and the wind and rain had been increasing steadily throughout the afternoon, however as the team waited in the car park for their start time, the weather had cleared a little and they all looked remarkable relaxed.

Finally, the time has arrived!

The 'Fell Runners' were the first to go but finally it was the turn of the Peakishness Team. Julia, Mark and Tanya set off at the start of the challenge at 15:57 and were soon lost from sight. All they had was each other and their enthusiasm. Now they would find out if all the preparation over the past 12 months was enough. Judging by their progress, it was!

Julia with energy to spare!

Mark, in his comfort zone

Tanya & Mark. Looks easy doesn't it?

But looks can be deceiving

Snow on Ben Nevis

The weather was kinder than they first thought, but they encountered thick fog about half way up. There was a driving wind and intermittent rain  to contend with, but fortunately, the wind was side-on rather than head-on. This meant that they could make good time. So much so that even the marshals were impressed with the teams progress.

The girls were a little concerned however when they came across the snow that was lying on the mountain, but when Mark said (tongue in cheek) that they could either turn back or keep going, they unanimously agreed to kept going.

On the summit, despite the snow and ice...

...And back down

Ben Nevis

Crossing the finishing line at 20:55, Mark, Julia and Tanya completed the gruelling climb of 4406 ft (1344m) in 4 hours 58 minutes.  This is a fantastic achievement. Well Done!

Dinner - fit for a king?

While Julia, Mark and Tanya were enjoying an evening stroll on the mountain, John had provided a splendid meal for them. (pictured right). Tanya's husband, David had previously prepared a tasty Spaghetti Bolognese  which John had warmed up on a camping stove.

John preparing dinner

There was just time for a quick shower before the meal and then they all left Fort William behind, heading for Helvellyn, only 235 miles away


Not unexpectedly, John had been unable to grab more than just a cat-nap as he waited for the climbing team, so his stamina was tested as he drove through the night. They set off shortly after 10:00 and as expected, the weather had closed in so he was battling rain and mist as well as fatigue, while the rest of the team, tired but exhilarated crashed out.

As he reached the M6, the weather improved a little allowing John to make good time. The team arrived at Threlkeld Cricket Club at 2:30 am and while the climbers slept in the car, John found a more comfortable position on the cricket club floor. They had barely two hours to sleep before facing the next leg of the challenge. Helvellyn AND Snowdon in one day.