At first light on 19th June 2025 5 veterans moved out, packs strapped, boots laced, heads down. After six months of preparation, the 15 Peaks Team stepped off on one of the UK’s most unforgiving endurance challenges.
Fifteen summits. Thirty-three miles of punishing ground. Over 10,000 feet of ascent. All with 60llbs of kit weighing them down, and a 48-hour window to complete the mission.
This wasn’t just about climbing mountains, it was about honouring those still fighting the battles we can’t always see. Every mile, every summit, was for the veteran community, for the fallen, the forgotten, and those still fighting for peace of mind long after their service ends.
This was a test of body, yes. But more than that, it was a test of will.
Hard Ground, Harder Moments
The Welsh mountains threw it all at them: blazing sun, freezing sleet, scree, exposed ridgelines, gale-force winds. From Snowdon to Crib Goch and beyond, every step demanded something more.
Then came a defining moment, when Clive started to feel unwell mid-ascent late on Friday, the decision to get him safely off the mountain was instant. His safety was our priority. Clive had full medical sign-off from his doctor to take part in the challenge, but as the mountains tested us all, they reminded us just how unpredictable things can be.
Despite the added miles and the emotional weight, the team rallied, and Clive, ever the fighter, met us at the finish. A true legend.
They didn’t flinch. They adapted and overcame.
Grit & Banter, Courage & Vulnerability
The challenge demanded not only physical endurance but also true courage in moments of vulnerability.
Crib Goch tested nerve and balance. Carnedd Dafydd brought high winds and loose rock. Roy summed it up best: “We felt like geckos clinging to the mountainside.”
Phil E laughed about early-morning “ablutions” on Snowdon that rivalled Crib in terror. Phil S called Crib “terrifying.” Lee said what got them through: unity, humour, and sheer determination.
T-shirts sponsored by Broken Clothing took a battering too, by the end of it they could walk the route themselves they were that honking!
Mission Accomplished
They didn’t just complete the challenge, they smashed it. In just over 36 hours with an average pace of 1.8mph, the team stood at the final peak, battered but unbroken.
They did it for The Royal Marines Charity and Root Cause Project CIC, to fund mental health support, wellbeing programmes, and hope for veterans. This wasn’t just about the mountains. It was about the mission.
They trained hard. They moved as one. They adapted, overcame, and endured.
Hoofing effort.
The Root Cause Project CIC 