3 Peaks Reflection

On 28th June 2025, a group of intrepid climbers took on climbing the highest peaks in north, mid and south Wales in 24 hours, to raise money for CMA services for centres. Sarah Harbour reports:

The Three Peaks Challenge was a strenuous and thought-provoking experience for everyone involved. It prompted us all to reflect, in some way, on our own physical limits and mental barriers when tackling such a demanding endeavour. It was eye-opening to realise how much the challenge mirrored the struggles many face in overcoming debt, poverty, and hopelessness—the issues we aimed to highlight through our fundraising campaign.

While we had prepared for bad weather, we still hoped to see a breathtaking sunrise on Snowdon. It was breathtaking, but not in the way we expected! The climb was tough, starting at 2 a.m. in complete darkness, and made even more challenging by fog and rain that limited our visibility despite our head torches. When we finally reached the summit, the winds were so fierce that we had to crawl to get there. By the time we reached the bottom, we were wet, cold and questioning how anyone could manage to climb again. But climb again we did. Cadair Idris proved just as steep in places and was also shrouded in fog. Wet, tired, and cold once more, we found encouragement from those supporting us along the way. Although Pen y Fan was the smallest of the peaks, we continued in poor weather, hoping the sunshine would break through. Finally, at 5:45 pm, we reached the summit.

The journey up Snowdon, Cadair Idris, and Pen y Fan poignantly mirrors the experience of our clients in overcoming the mountains of debt, poverty, and hopelessness. Just like climbing those challenging peaks, facing financial struggles often begins with a difficult, uncertain step — sometimes in darkness or fog, with obstacles like rain or wind making the path even tougher. Despite the hardships, perseverance is key; each step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to the summit of financial stability and hope. Support from others is crucial and can provide the encouragement needed to keep going. Ultimately, the climb teaches us that even when the journey seems impossible, taking that first step and continuing onward can lead to a sense of achievement and hope, no matter how steep the mountain.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported the Mountain Challenge - a wonderful £11,612 has been raised to support CMA's services to our centres!

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