Liz Clarke met up with Matt Maggs from JFK electrical to catch up with him and the team following their epic Three Peaks Challenge. The intrepid team have raised over £10,000 for Bristol Autism Support and we wanted to get the low down on the challenge, blisters and all!
The Interview
L: Tell me more about the challenge
M: We wanted to raise money for Bristol Autism Support through our physical challenge event, something we do every year. This was by far the biggest thing we have done. The hike started at Ben Nevis which we climbed in the night, travelled the 6 hours to Scaffold Pike and scaled Snowden by 1 am the next morning. Our challenge took us 28 hours.
L: How many people did the challenge?
M: 28 people including minibus drivers.
L: What were the highlights?
M: There were some stunning views and scenery. Watching the sun set over the lakes of Snowden was incredible. The team surpassed our expectations, the sense of accomplishment for us all was a big highlight. We really came together and bonded as a group. To be raising money for our common cause gave us a real sense of accomplishment. Pushing our individual limits and achieving something together were real high points of the trips.
L: What were the challenges?
M: The sheer physical task was huge, I think we may have underestimated it a bit! The hardest part was getting back on the bus, knowing in a short time we’d be out climbing again, on very little sleep! But when we embarked on Snowden, we knew it was the final push and all pushed each other on.
L: What kept you going?
M: Sugar!! That and the amazing team spirit, knowing every step was a step closer to our goal, and to raising more money for BAS
L: Why choose BAS?
M: It is a charity very close to our hearts. We have family members who are autistic and we have use BAS’s services and see the great work BAS do in reducing isolation and helping families through times which might otherwise be confusing or lonely.
L: Do you have any tips for anyone planning such an epic challenge?
M: Preparation is key! We had amazing planning thanks to our team mates who planned everything down to the smallest detail. Also, talk to real people who have done the challenge. Research and online forums can only get you so far.
L: What’s next for the team?
M: We are holding a Golf Tournament Day in September, raising money for Winston’s Wish. It will be slightly less strenuous that the Three Peaks Challenge!
Thank you JFK Electrical
BAS want to thank all the team at JFK Electrical for their amazing achievement. The money raised will enable us to continue our vital support for our families. The fundraising is still active so if you’ve been moved by JFK’s amazing efforts, do consider donating here
Thanks also to the companies that sponsored JFK to make their journey possible- IDSL, Kitco, Office tech, The Pitchmark Group and S&H Electrical.
If you have been inspired to plan a challenge to raise money for BAS, please get in touch with us! We can support you in your fundraising journey. Just email enquiries@bristolautismsupport.org for a chat
