Kelsall teenager becomes youngest person ever to complete the gruelling National Three Peaks Challenge on their own

Jul 14 2011 by Gary Porter, Chester Chronicle

A TEENAGER has spoken of his pride after becoming the youngest person ever to complete the gruelling National Three Peaks Challenge on their own.

Alex Staniforth, 16, from Kelsall, successfully scaled the UK’s three highest mountains – Ben Nevis, Snowdon and Scafell Pike – in just 21 hours and 57 minutes.

He described the mammoth challenge as the hardest but most rewarding experience of his life.

The Tarporley High School pupil, who was backed to complete the challenge by football legend John Barnes, has helped raise nearly £1,400 to be split between two charities.

The beneficiaries are Red Endangered Animal Connection Trust (REACT) – which protects animals such as orangutans, bears and elephants – and Breakthrough Breast Cancer.

Alex, who is a budding wildlife photographer and nature enthusiast, said: “I’m well chuffed. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done but definitely the most rewarding experience I've ever had.

“In total there was 22 miles of walking, 10,000ft of ascent and 497 miles of driving.

“I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me, it’s been overwhelming.

“The biggest thanks goes to my step dad Chris, who drove me to each location. I couldn’t have done it without him.”

Alex completed Ben Nevis in three hours and 52 minutes, Scafell Pike in three hours and 10 minutes, and Snowdon in three hours.

The rest of his time was accrued through travelling to each destination.

Alex says the hardest obstacle to overcome during his challenge was lack of sleep.

“I felt absolutely awful during the last drive, the sickness and lack of sleep caught up with me,” he explained.

“I couldn't eat anything and felt like giving up but that wasn’t an option. The adrenalin kept me going.”

For more information about Alex’s gruelling challenge, or to sponsor him visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/AlexStaniforth3Peaks.