Luke Farmer from East Dorset has completed the iconic Three Peaks Challenge in an impressive 24 hours and 38 minutes, accompanied by his long‑standing friend Jordan. Although they narrowly missed their 24-hour target, their achievement is remarkable, especially given that around 40% of people who attempt the challenge don’t complete it at all.
Finishing all three mountains in just over 24 hours is something to be incredibly proud of, and we are truly inspired by their determination.
Just like Luke, many autistic people go on to achieve things others may not believe possible. It’s thanks to fundraisers like him that we can continue providing the support and opportunities that help autistic people to thrive.
Luke has raised an outstanding £1,325 for Autism Unlimited, funds that will have a direct and positive impact on the people we support.
The Three Peaks Challenge involves climbing the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales (Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon). Completing even one of these climbs is an achievement but to complete all three, including the travel between them, is a true test of resilience.
In the lead up to the challenge, Luke and Jordan completed several training hikes to prepare. However, on the day, the weather had other ideas. Conditions were particularly tough on Scafell Pike, where thick mist made the climb far more demanding than expected.
Despite this, they pushed through and completed each mountain in the following times:
- Ben Nevis - 4 hours 45 minutes
- Scafell Pike -4 hours 15 minutes (with limited visibility!)
- Snowdon - 3 hours 35 minutes
Their commitment, courage and teamwork reflect the values at the heart of Autism Unlimited, showing what can be achieved with the right support and a belief in unlimited possibilities.
Luke shared why this challenge meant so much to him:
I chose to support Autism Unlimited because of the fantastic work the charity does in helping autistic people and their families across the South. In particular, I was impressed by the work carried out at Portfield School, providing specialist education and support that helps young people develop independence and life skills. Knowing that the funds raised would directly contribute to making a positive difference made Autism Unlimited an easy choice for me.
Autism and raising awareness of it is something that is close to my heart. I have two nephews who are autistic, as well as a number of close friends who have autistic children. Through them, I have seen both the challenges that can be faced and the importance of having the right support, education and opportunities available.
We are extremely grateful to Luke and Jordan for taking on such a demanding challenge and for choosing to support autistic people and their families through their efforts.
Feeling inspired?
Luke’s story shows that there are countless ways to fundraise for Autism Unlimited, from running events to climbing mountains, and everything in between.
We currently have discounted charity places available for some of the UK’s biggest events, including The Brighton Marathon, Edinburgh Marathon and Manchester Marathon.
If running isn’t for you, there are hundreds of other challenges you can take on or you can create your own.
However you choose to get involved, every penny you raise goes directly towards supporting autistic people.
