Yorkshire Three Peaks – A Reflection

By Matt Spencer

Senior Account Manager, Cratus Group

After months of anticipation, planning and (days) of training, the Cratus Team successfully completed the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge last week in aid of Cancer Research UK.

It was a gruelling but deeply rewarding experience. Taking on over 24 miles and 1,500m of ascent in 12 hours certainly took a physical and mental toll but came with an amazing sense of achievement as we crossed the line as a team during sunset on Friday evening. 

After our 4am alarm, and setting off on the challenge just after 5:30am we first took on Pen-y-ghent. As the initial climb got underway, it did not take long for reality to set in as we braced ourselves against the strong wind blowing us the other way. It was at this point I came to terms with what exactly I had signed up for! However, we made it up in good time and were rewarded with stunning views on the descent just as the sun began to rise.

Next was the 12km trek to Whernside. After a quick pit stop and welcome refuelling in the form of coffee and bacon baps, we passed the Ribbleshead Viaduct and embarked on the gradual yet deceptively long ascent up Whernside. By the time we made it up to the second peak, the legs were seizing up and the blisters were very much on the way but some comfort was to be found in the knowledge that we were nearly there. 

Following the steep descent from Whernside, one peak remained and we pushed on as Ingleborough loomed in the distance. It was more of a scramble to the top, and the part of the challenge I personally found the most demanding (not one for those who don’t like heights!) but with the help of the team I creaked my way to the top. 

As we reached the summit of Ingleborough, the pain made way for relief and delight knowing we had conquered the third and final peak. After an 8km stretch descending Ingleborough, we made it back to Horton-in-Ribblesdale and were just left with the simple task of navigating hire cars, taxis and public transport back to London – but that’s a story for another time!

Cratus Group was proud to be one of the sponsor’s for this year’s Public Sector Challenge and would like to place on record our thanks to Jonathan Stephenson for organising, and to Cancer Research UK for the vital and fantastic work they continue to deliver. 

There is still time to support this amazing cause by visiting https://fundraise.cancerresearchuk.org/page/cratus-group-yorkshire-three-peaks-challenge