The Wasa Challenge - 7th August 2011

The 7th of August was a special day in Amantani’s diary. This was the day in which 23 brave souls would carry the weight of the girls in our boarding houses to the summit of Ben Nevis. Their weight was represented by rucksacks full of sand.

The weights being carried ranged between 4kg and 21kg. This was sure to be a tough challenge as the hikers also carried water and food for the hike. On top of all this, the weather was against them, with torrential rain and fog during the majority of the hike, it really did start to dawn on the hikers how tough the challenge was going to be.

The group started the ascent as one large unit as conditions were so bad, strength in numbers worked well with all the hikers encouraging one another. The weights really started to take their toll after the half waypoint. Many of the hikers experiencing sore backs, knees and very cold fingers!!

The group reached the summit in 3.5 hours, which was extremely impressive considering the weather conditions and the weights being carried. All the hikers made it to the top without emptying their bags, this was an incredible effort and a testament to the groups motivation and will power! Unfortunately the group could only spend a couple of minuets at the top of the UK, as the hikers were suffering from the cold conditions.

Spirits were high throughout the hike which resulted in lots of laughter. It was great to see new faces meeting and getting on so well. This was an incredibly special challenge, and the group made sure it was a ‘once in a lifetime’ challenge.

Thanks so much to all the hikers and to their supporters. As a group they managed to raise an incredible £12,000. This will cover the running costs of the new boys boarding house for a whole year - incredible!

Congratulations to Will (Gi-Gi) who cycled to Ben Nevis before doing the Wasa Challenge. The 400 miles cycle was made extra touch by Will carrying all his provisions and sleeping it rough, what a fantastic achievement!

The lack of photos from The Wasa Challenge gives you an idea of the weather conditions at the top of Ben Nevis.

Please click here to see a few snaps from the day...

If you would like to join us on our next adventure, please get in touch with chris@amantani.org.uk