Firefighter and former Royal Marine Commando, Greg Wilson has set a new world endurance record on Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon), by summiting the peak 9 times in 48 hours whilst carrying 40 lb (18.14kg) on his back, raising money and awareness for both The Firefighters Charity and The Royal Marines Charity.
Operation Snowdon Ascent took place Tuesday 24th & Wednesday 25th October, where Greg took the popular Llanberis Path which is 9 miles long and 975m ascent. Over the 48 hours, Greg successfully travelled 81 miles and a combined height of 8,775m – which is only 74m shorter than the height of Mount Everest.
Greg set a new world endurance record on the mountain by completing 6 ascents in the first 24 hours, succeeding a previous record of 5 ascents in that time, and setting a brand-new record for most ascents in 48 hours. The base camp was at Penceunant Isaf Café, where fellow firefighters and veterans supported Greg’s rest and nutrition. Specialists GoFiit Nutrition provided meals designed to help the endurance feat, and café owner Steffan offered amazing hospitality.
Greg, who turned 35 on Tuesday 24th during the feat, is a firefighter in Hertfordshire, having joined the service four years ago. Before this he served seven years in the Royal Marines. With the initial fundraising target of £2000 now surpassed, Greg wanted to raise awareness for the charities and the support they offer the frontline workers. The challenge was inspired by the arduous and high-pressured situations both roles can entail. The new record will be registered with Record Holders Republic.
Greg travelled from the start of the path at the end of Victoria Terrace to the peak and back again for each ascent. The average person takes 5-7 hours to complete the 9 miles there and back. Greg’s average pace was 3 hours 45 minutes across the entire challenge despite the burden of the heavy 40lb pack.
Greg Wilson says, “This was an immense challenge, but I really wanted to inspire my daughter about hard work and pushing your limits. As both a firefighter and former Royal Marine Commando I know the immense pressure and physical toll of these jobs. Both services are like a family with great camaraderie, but the roles are incredibly demanding and these two charities offer invaluable help to the workers. We were very lucky with the weather, there was a great atmosphere on the mountain with people kindly cheering each summit and I am very proud of this achievement and the money raised.”
The Firefighters Charity and The Royal Marines Charity help both serving and retired workers and their families with a range of resources including mental health, physical health, education, and employment support.
