World record attempt to launch 100 Peaks Challenge
On May 13th in the Corporal Budd VC Gym in Colchester, a world record attempt will be made to mark the launch of The 100 Peaks Challenge, an epic 25-day trek across 100 peaks of the British Isles, that aims to raise £100,000 for both ABF The Soldiers’ Charity and Support Our Paras. An attempt will be made to break the world record for the distance covered on a rowing machine in 24 hours.
The 100 Peaks Challenge was created by Karl Rushen, a supporter of both charities, who has already raised several thousand pounds for many military causes. Karl was inspired to set up the event in memory of his brother Lloydy, a soldier who was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2011.
Between May and June 2017, a team of 14 men and women will attempt to summit 100 of the highest peaks across the UK. The team will also cycle between Peak Regions and cross the Irish Sea twice in kayaks to the Isle of Man. The Challenge will see the team climb the equivalent height of Mt. Everest in excess of nine times, covering a distance of nearly 1500 miles on foot, bike and paddle.
The team will be officially launching the challenge in May with the world record attempt being made by Barrie Williams a supporter of the The 100 Peaks Challenge in Colchester. Barrie is an accomplished athlete with a track record of endurance feats.
“It is quite possibly the most demanding endurance challenge ever staged in the UK.”
– Sir Ranulph Fiennes
Olympic Gold Medallist and member of the British Army, Captain Heather Stanning MBE, is supporting the team for the challenge. Heather said: “You can’t underestimate how tough climbing 100 of the highest peaks throughout the British Isles will be. I wish those taking part the very best of luck, especially Barrie for the record attempt; they are putting themselves through the mill for two really worthy causes.”
Explorer and British Army veteran, Sir Ranulph Fiennes added: “This is a genuine attempt at something quite epic, almost extreme in its ambition. It is quite possibly the most demanding endurance challenge ever staged in the UK.”
Brigadier (Ret’d) Robin Bacon, Chief of Staff for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity said: “Karl has already run three marathons and taken part in skydives for our Charity, and now he and his team are taking on one of the most unique and challenging events we have seen. Not only are they showing their support for the men and women of the Army through this gruelling challenge, but the money they raise will make a real difference to those soldiers, veterans and their families who may need our help.”
Stephen Cooper, Support Our Paras Charity Director, said: “Karl’s energy and drive in memory of his brother Lloyd is inspiring. This breath-taking challenge takes it to new heights. We wish Karl and his team the very best and are grateful that he has chosen to support our Para soldiers and families.”
The 100 Peaks Challenge launches at Corporal Budd VC Gym in Colchester on the 13th May. The event takes place between the 23rd May and the 16th June 2017.