Extreme Hike Round Leicestershire

Extreme Hike Round Leicestershire

16th/17th July 2011

Despite the torrential rain and difficult conditions the Reverend Tim Blewett, Lieut. Matthew Cryer and Lieut. Liam Wilson, set out from Launde Abbey at 12 noon on Saturday 16^th July to walk the Leicestershire Round to raise funds for Action Homeless and the outreach work of Launde Abbey.

The adverse weather conditions added a new dimension to the challenge as the three walkers had to fight their way through boggy fields and muddy pathways. They also negotiated their way through a field of inquisitive bullocks. However this did not hinder their enthusiasm as they made good time, reaching Foxton before 3.30pm. Throughout the challenge the walkers were supported by a team from Action Homeless and Launde Abbey, a special thank you goes to Jacqueline Platt who provided medical support and treatment. The sun did make a welcome appearance in the afternoon, giving the walkers an opportunity to dry off and re-focus their energies.

The weekend of the 16^th and 17^th was specially selected due to the full moon but as clouds descended, the moon’s light disappeared and as darkness fell, the walk became even more challenging. With head torches on, the walkers continued with Matt and Liam reaching Market Bosworth by 11pm, an amazing achievement.

After many litres of water and numerous energy gels and bars, the walkers ran out of steam and came to a stop between 3am and 5am on Sunday morning. Despite not making it back to Launde Abbey, it really was a fantastic achievement for everyone involved. The walkers demonstrated high levels of physical fitness as well as extreme strength of mind to keep going for as long as they did. Liam and Matt maintained an average speed of 4.9 miles per hour, covering 64 miles in 15 hours. Tim went one village further, stopping at Thornton just after 5am.

A big thank you goes out to all those people that helped out along the way and those who came out to greet the walkers and encourage them. Of course, we would especially like to thank Matt, Liam and Tim for their tremendous efforts! You can still make a donation and show your support for their fantastic achievement.