Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge

A team from B&Q took on the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge and raise an amazing £36,000 for the Foundation.  

B&Q colleague Wayne Dennison shares his experience:  

“I’m a keen runner, and like to spend as much time as I can outdoors on the trails. So as soon as the rumour appeared that a challenge had been set to do something like the 3 peaks, I was name straight in the hat! I love testing myself and the idea of an endurance challenge like this – although daunting – was very exciting. 

Alongside this – my youngest son was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes before Christmas and this life-changing event has given me a different perspective on life. It’s motivated me to more for others and start supporting many more charities. 

I can’t take much credit for fund-raising beyond messaging friends and family, however I  managed to raise a respectable amount and was really pleased everyone wanted to support me in this way. 

I tried to make training for this as fun as I could… I hate gyms or any kind of structured work out, so as many runs I could get out on in early mornings or lunch breaks the better – always outdoors and I made sure it was whatever the weather! (just as well as the weather on the peaks was nasty for portions). 

I also tried to walk as many school drops as I could to get some extra miles in. 

The day was one I will remember – the things that really stand out to me, 

  • the scenery – wow! Absolutely beautiful
  • the weather, started very wet – but this was for the best as it showed us maybe worst case, the sun came out and it was perfect… but it managed to rain again on the ascent of each peak! 
  • I had and maintained a 3 sock change strategy! Perfect, keep those feet dry. 
  • The camaraderie with both teams was fantastic, I loved getting to know a new group of colleagues and sharing stories with each other.
  • Overcoming this challenge and crossing the finish line ahead of time with Helen after a 3 mile jog at the end was an incredible feeling of achievement. Absolutely loved it! 
  • I am so proud of every member of the team – if you were there then you know, it was hard and not to be underestimated! But everyone was incredible, from walkers to support crew – thank you. 

 I hope we can take on another challenge next year with each other and raise more money for the B&Q Foundation but personally it has given me a real appetite for this level of challenge… I’m looking next at a midnight mountain marathon!

If anyone else wants to give something like this a go – 

  • Do your homework
  • Make sure you train
  • Do not underestimate the challenge
  • Get a good raincoat
  • Have the best time!”