With just weeks to go until this year’s Wiltshire 3 Peaks Challenge, organisers are preparing to welcome participants spanning almost every generation for one of the county’s most distinctive fundraising events.
On Saturday 13 June, hundreds of walkers and runners will descend on the Pewsey Vale to tackle routes ranging from 10km to a full marathon, all in support of vulnerable young people across Wiltshire.
Organised by the Youth Adventure Trust (YAT), the annual challenge takes participants across some of the county’s most recognisable landscapes, starting from Oare and traversing the rolling hills that have become synonymous with the event.
While many fundraising challenges focus on speed, endurance or competition, organisers say the Wiltshire 3 Peaks has become known for something else entirely — its remarkable ability to bring together people of all ages.
Last year’s event featured participants ranging from an 80-year-old seasoned walker to a six-month-old baby being carried along the route. One of the standout stories was a seven-year-old participant who completed the entire half-marathon walking route, demonstrating determination that impressed fellow challengers and organisers alike.
For many, that sense of shared achievement is what sets the event apart.
Eighty-one-year-old Stephen Beare will be taking part for the fourth time this year and says the atmosphere keeps drawing him back.
“I never tire of walking these hills alongside people 70 years younger than me,” he said.
“It’s great to see such a range of age groups achieving something positive for our local young people. It’s a wonderful atmosphere to be part of.”
The challenge raises money for the Youth Adventure Trust, a charity which works with vulnerable 11 to 16-year-olds through outdoor adventure programmes designed to build confidence, resilience and self-belief.
Thanks to sponsorship from Beard Construction, organisers say all money raised through entry fees and participant fundraising will go directly towards supporting young people on those programmes.
Mark Davey, Chief Executive of the Youth Adventure Trust, said the event reflects the charity’s wider mission of encouraging people to step beyond their comfort zones.
“The Wiltshire 3 Peaks Challenge brings our core mission to life by connecting people of all generations with the outdoors,” he said.
“It’s inspiring to see toddlers, grandparents and everyone in between sharing the trail to test their comfort zones and explore our beautiful local landscape to raise vital funds for vulnerable young people in our community.”
As the countdown continues, organisers are encouraging anyone considering taking part to sign up while places remain available.
Whether tackling the 10km route, the half marathon or the full marathon challenge, participants will be helping provide opportunities for young people who may otherwise never experience the confidence-building benefits of outdoor adventure.
And if previous years are anything to go by, age is unlikely to be a barrier.
The Wiltshire 3 Peaks Challenge takes place on Saturday 13 June, starting from Oare in the Pewsey Vale. Registration remains open for all three routes.
