On the cusp of summer’s end, as August faded into September, Orly embarked on a journey that pushed her to the limits—tackling the UK’s iconic Three Peaks Challenge. Climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon in under 24 hours is no easy feat, but Orly’s determination and grit made it possible!
In this reflection, we take a look back at the highs, lows, and everything in between, as Orly shares her unforgettable experience conquering these legendary mountains. From the challenges of night-time ascents to the joy of reaching each summit, this is a story of endurance, resilience, and personal triumph.
The Interview
What inspired you to take on the Three Peaks Challenge?
In my spare time I love to spend time outdoors exploring new walks. I had climbed both Snowdon and Scafell Pike before doing the challenge (years, not hours, apart!) and had been wanting to take part in the National Three Peaks Challenge for a number of years. After working at Save the Family for a few months, I decided that it the right time to sign up for the challenge and raise money for a wonderful cause at the same time.
How did you prepare for the challenge, both physically and mentally?
I prepared physically by fitting in as many training walks as possible, both outdoors and in the gym on the treadmill. Mentally, I prepared myself by telling myself that I could do it, visualising myself completing the challenge, and thinking of all eventualities to ensure I was prepared with the right clothing, equipment and food.
How did you train for the challenge? Were there any specific exercises or routines that helped you prepare?
I started training 4 months before taking part in the challenge. Training started off with short walks on rocky terrain and using the treadmill at the gym, setting it to incline 12 and walking uphill for 30 mins at a time. As time went on, I increased the distance of the training walks to a maximum of 12 miles including hills and mountainous areas where possible. Right before the challenge, I gave myself a week of no training so that my muscles had time to rest before the challenge began.
What kind of gear or equipment did you find essential for the Three Peaks Challenge?
Compeed blister plasters – they are lifesavers, even if you have broken in your walking boots! A comfy pillow, to get a few hours’ sleep in-between mountains. And lots of snacks to keep your energy up! Other people taking part in the challenge used walking poles, which in hindsight was a good idea and I would definitely use them if I were to do the challenge again.
Can you walk us through each of the peaks… Which one did you find the most challenging, and why?
The challenge started off at Ben Nevis in Scotland, setting off at 6am and walking up through a cloud inversion. The trail was long and at times it felt like it wasn’t going to end, but the weather conditions meant we could see for miles which motivated me to keep going (as did the whole bar of Soreen that I demolished on the walk up…!) It was worth the three-hour hike when we reached the summit and could see a spectacular view of mountain peaks for miles. Next up was Scafell Pike in the Lake District, which was another surreal experience. On the ascent, my legs definitely knew they had climbed one mountain that day and were aching a lot, as the trail is like one big flight of stairs! But halfway up Scafell, the most beautiful sunset went down behind us and by the time we reached the summit we were rewarded with an orange glow over the mountain tops. After a long drive and a nap in the minibus, I woke up at the third mountain, Yr Wfydda (Snowdon). The walk up to the final mountain peak started off in the dark, with mist and a little bit of rain. This was the most challenging peak due to the weather conditions and terrain of the Pyg track, not to mention the tiredness and muscle ache! With the help of an experienced mountain guide, a motivational team and a headtorch, I made it to the top of Yr Wfydda shortly after 7am and completed the National Three Peaks Challenge. This time we were not rewarded with clear skies or a glowing sunset, but a sense of pride and achievement in completing such a huge challenge. We had done it!!!
What was the most memorable moment during the challenge for you?
The incredible sunset on Scafell Pike, I had never seen anything like it.
How did you stay motivated during the challenge, especially during the more difficult moments?
Taking part in the challenge with a group rather than solo really kept me motivated. We looked out for each other and kept reminding everyone how far we had come on each peak, and how this was a special, once in a lifetime experience. Reminding myself of Save the Family and who I was raising money for also kept me motivated, especially when I saw that sponsorship money had been donated whilst I was on the challenge and seeing that I had gone over my fundraising target.
Was there a point where you thought about giving up? If so, what kept you going?
The first peak, Ben Nevis, was difficult as at the summit was not visible and at points it felt like it the trail was never going to end. Right near the top (I didn’t realise how close we were at this point), the trail got very steep with lots of loose rocks, and I realised then that this was not going to be an easy challenge. But seeing other people come down the mountain motivational words from passers-by made me realise that I could do it too, that I was going to reach this summit and the other two to complete challenge.
How has completing the Three Peaks Challenge impacted you personally? Have you taken away any lessons or insights from the experience?
I have learnt the importance of having supportive people around you, both during the National Three Peaks Challenge and in life generally. I couldn’t have completed the National Three Peaks Challenge without the support from family and friends prior to the challenge, and without the wonderful team of people I walked alongside during the challenge.
The entire team at Save the Family couldn’t be prouder of Orly! If you’d like to congratulate her, consider making a donation to the ongoing Just Giving fund. Every contribution goes directly toward supporting the families we work with!
