STUDENTS from the Sixth Form at Launceston College, part of Athena Learning Trust, have successfully completed the Welsh Three Peaks Challenge — a feat that saw them conquer three of Wales’ highest mountains in just 18 hours.

The challenge involved scaling Snowdon, Cader Idris, and Pen Y Fan, covering nearly 20 miles and an impressive 6000 ft of ascent.

The day began at 2.30am, with an early wake-up call before embarking on their first climb of the day, Snowdon, at 4am via the challenging Pyg Track. After reaching the summit at 6am, the team descended into Llanberis for a well-deserved bacon roll and hot chocolate, before continuing their journey to the second peak in Mid Wales.

The second mountain, Cader Idris, proved to be a tough climb but was well worth the effort when the students reached the top, taking in the stunning views from the summit. The final peak, Pen Y Fan, was tackled in the dark, with students using head torches to navigate the trail. The group reached the summit at 9pm, completing the entire challenge in record time and with a sense of immense achievement.

Students were very positive about the challenge, with one participant saying: “For me the best part about our Welsh Three Peaks challenge was getting to experience an adventure with some of my closest friends. Being able to explore a completely new, wild and beautiful place which is far far away from home was a great experience and doing so with such great people made it even more special and fun. We were able to keep each other motivated and persevere through how tired we were, as well as having a laugh with one another at the same time.”

Another added: “Completing the Welsh three peaks challenge was an unforgettable experience, made even more special by the absolutely breathtaking scenery and incredible weather we were blessed with.”

A third student which took part said: “The hardest part of doing the Welsh three peaks was waking up at 2:30 am on a Saturday, after that we all pushed and supported each other as a team, making the rest of the journey feel like a walk in the park lasting 18 hours.”

The Welsh Three Peaks Challenge is an impressive test of both physical and mental stamina, and the students of Launceston Sixth Form demonstrated exceptional teamwork and determination to complete the event successfully.

Students at Launceston College get to experience a wide range of opportunities, from residentials, the Duke of Edinburgh award, ten tors, sporting fixtures across the country and a range of extra-curricular clubs.

Matthew Thompson, principal at Launceston College, said: "We are incredibly proud of our students for completing the Welsh Three Peaks Challenge. This is a truly remarkable achievement, and it highlights not only their physical endurance but also the strength of character and teamwork they displayed. It was a great experience for all involved, and it’s wonderful to see our students setting such high goals and achieving them together."