Wildheart Team Takes On Gruelling Welsh 3000s Challenge
- Dominic Kureen
- 36 minutes ago
- 1 min read
A team from the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary has completed one of the UK's toughest mountain challenges to raise money for the Sandown-based charity.
Chief Executive Lawrence Bates was joined by Mary Lenton, Sandra Digby and Charlie Panayi as they attempted the Welsh 3000s – a demanding route covering all 15 of Wales' mountains over 3,000 feet.
The team completed the first two sections together, reaching 10 summits and climbing more than 9,000 feet over 15 hours.
However, injury and exhaustion forced three members of the group to withdraw before the final stage.
Lawrence continued alone, completing the remaining five peaks before reaching the final summit shortly before midnight.
He then faced a further two-hour walk out of the mountains, finishing the challenge after around 19 hours on foot.
In total, he covered around 32 miles, climbing almost 13,750 feet.
The challenge is raising money for the Wildheart Animal Sanctuary, which provides lifelong care for rescued animals from around the world.
The team is now hoping to reach its £3,000 fundraising target through continued public support.
Lawrence described the Welsh 3000s as one of the toughest physical and mental challenges he has ever faced, saying the extreme heat and demanding terrain pushed the team to its limits.
Supporters wishing to sponsor the team can donate via the team's fundraising page: