Scotland 3 Peaks post event report

Scotland. 9 – 10 May. CARE’s inaugural Scottish 3 peaks Challenge. 2 teams. 24 hours.

This challenge was particularly poignant as each mountain was selected for its historical significance, each witness to its own bloody civil war or conflict. The theme captures CARE’s current work in assisting those most affected and vulnerable to conflicts around the world. This was a CARE Challenge with a twist, a mystical journey that brought the mountains to life.

After arriving at Glengarry Forest, Scotland, and following a strict series of kit, safety and food checks, it was all guns blazing, the race was on. The first mountain was Ben Tee (901m) which witnessed the 1544 Battle of Kinloch-lochy, an 800 man battle over who would take over the Chiefship of Clan McDonald of Clan Ranald. With breathtaking views and icy terrain, teams soon realised the demanding nature of the challenge that lay ahead.

After completing the first mountain and following a brief stop for some well deserved food and a change of clothes, dusk brought the second mountain; teams tackled Ben Ledi (879m), location of the 1645 Battle of Callander, by moonlight. Donning head torches they moved as quickly as possible in order to complete the mountain within the allotted time. A nighttime vista of Scotland’s southern cities at the summit made for an ethereal scene.

The final mountain was Ben Cruachen (1126m) where in 1308, King Robert the Bruce faced the MacDougalls of Lorn, a clan allied with the English crown. This was the most demanding of the 3 mountains, requiring participants to summon every last bit of energy.  Upon reaching the summit, walkers were greeted by sun, the exertions of the hours before displaced by a serene calm, reflective of the relief felt upon finally reaching the top.

After enduring hours of what can be described as changeable weather conditions, teams crossed the finish line with FMC scooping first place in a time of 21 hours 58 minutes. History most certainly was not repeated and despite a healthy rivalry to win, there was a real sense of camaraderie between the 2 teams, with FMC pitching up at the final mark to welcome ConocoPhilips, who finished in 24 hours 12 minutes, over the finish line.

The guides’ knowledge, both in terms of the terrain and the physical challenge, and in terms of the history - the myths, legends and facts – meant that not only did participants feel they were in safe hands, but they were able to relive past battles through the stories imparted. The contemporary conflict slant of CARE’s current work was communicated throughout and kept the teams going as the worthwhile nature of the challenge was apparent throughout.

Stunningly beautiful, staggeringly challenging, this foray into Scottish history was regarded by all as well worth the effort and an experience not to be forgotten:

‘I thought the whole event was really well organised, the guides were absolute stars (and Will the medic) and we couldn't have done it without them.’ Sally Arnold, ConocoPhillips

‘(We felt) sheer relief at having accomplished the Challenge and an overwhelming sense of achievement! We deserved that post-event beer!’ Hannah Simpson, Contracts Analyst, ConocoPhillips