The challengers came from across the CTP’s Regional Resettlement Centres, Head Office and the RFEA, and all had been training hard in preparation for a move away from our usual desk jobs.
“We succeeded as a team, everyone contributed in their own way. A ski lift would have been beneficial!” - Chris Cowley, RRC Plymouth
The challenge is the first of its kind organised by WWTW, and involved one hundred teams of four, undertaking either the ‘Tough’ or the ‘Tougher’ challenges in the beautiful surroundings of the Lake District, comprising either five or seven peaks over one day.
Despite blue skies and mild temperatures as the teams arrived in Penrith the day before the event, the morning of the 18th revealed grey skies and heavy rain, and with the challengers aiming to reach up to 1,144m of altitude gain during the walk, there was little hope of these conditions improving up the mountains!
“This was such an amazing challenge, both physically and mentally. So glad to have been part of it, what an experience.” - Laura Brown, RRC Cottesmore
Donning waterproof trousers and possibly one of the most colourful collections of waterproof jackets on display, the teams set off in good spirits, and were soon on their way up the first peak. With no let-up in the rain throughout the day, the walk certainly lived up to its name, but by focussing on the wounded Service men & women who would benefit from the generous donations of our sponsors (in excess of £3,500!), the team members doggedly rose to the challenge.
“I felt elated when we finished. I couldn’t have done it without the fantastic support from the rest of the team. Also the sense of achievement that we’d been a part of something that did so much good.” - Lynne Bolton, RRC Catterick
The walk involved tricky mountainous terrain and freezing temperatures at the highest points, with snow still apparent on the mountain tops - but thanks to teamwork and a lot of sugary snacks, the CTP teams didn’t give up, and despite the murky weather and challenging conditions, were still able to take in the stunning scenery of the Lake District, including peaks such as Helvellyn and Red Screes.
“Proud to be a part of the event - such a brilliant charity, and thrilled to be in one piece afterwards! So proud of all our CTP teams, excellent bunch.” - Carol Harte, RRC Catterick
After a very long and very wet day, the challengers arrived back at the base camp, to be greeted by Co-founder of the charity, Ed Parker. All felt a great sense of personal achievement & were thrilled to have completed the challenge. With not a blister to report between them, the challengers enjoyed a barbeque and a well earned rest!
“Despite getting absolutely drenched, scrambling up a rock face with no safety equipment, and going the wrong way and completing half of the “tougher” challenge, I had the most amazing time and would do it again in a heartbeat! I feel such a sense of achievement for both me and my team, and completing the Challenge was most definitely worth all the hard work.” - Victoria McCall, RFEA
The event proved a great success for WWTW & £210,000+ was raised overall for the charity. Meanwhile, the CTP team even managed to make a quick appearance on BBC North online news!