Two days ago they were battling snowstorms and sub-zero temperatures. Now the athletes doing the ARCHIE’S Mountain Challenge have other problems to contend with dehydration and sunburn!
The man behind the challenge, Dr Paul Fettes, said: “Apart from a few snowfields which caused issues, the main problem now is trying not to get dehydrated or sunburnt. It’s best not to carry water as it’s the heaviest thing you can take and instead we’re drinking water from streams where possible.
“There’s a great supply of world-class water and with the recent torrential rain, there’s plenty of it. However, on the ridges, water is in limited supply.”
Despite the heat, the runners have scaled almost 100 peaks … and they are hopeful of finishing all 130 by Sunday or Monday.
Wednesday saw them taking on the Grey Corries en route to Ben Nevis. However, deep snow at the summit of the UK’s biggest mountain made the ascent impossible.
Russell Duncan said: “The approach to Ben Nevis from the Aonachs looked sketchy so Jay and I took the safe option and bailed out down Aonach Mor, running down a snow-filled gully.”
They returned to the mountain on Thursday with full winter climbing gear, including ice axes and crampons.
ARCHIE’s Mountain Challenge is raising funds for Tayside Children’s Hospital’s twin operating theatres. To make a donation and follow the team, see www.archiesmountainchallenge.org.uk