1st Person to run the entire Welsh 3 Peaks Challenge

Isaac Kenyon, the intrepid British adventurer and endurance athlete, goes on a remarkable quest. In a daring feat, Isaac set his sights on summiting and running an astonishing 218km (135 miles) between the three highest peaks in Wales: Mt. Snowdon, Cadir Idris, and Pen-y-Fan.

This journey was made into an awe-inspiring film that follows Isaac as he embarks on a gruelling ultra-endurance run, pushing his limits both physically and mentally. Over the course of four challenging days, he will traverse breathtaking landscapes and hidden gems of the Welsh countryside, showcasing the beauty that nature has to offer.

Beyond the physical feat, this journey serves a deeper purpose. Isaac's passion for reconnecting with the outdoors serves as a natural well-being prescription for his physical and mental health. Through his extraordinary adventure, he shares a profound message about the transformative power of nature in nurturing our well-being.

Prepare to be captivated by stunning visuals, inspired by Isaac's unwavering determination, and moved by the uplifting message that this film conveys. Experience the raw beauty of Wales and witness firsthand the triumph of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Don't miss your chance to embark on this extraordinary cinematic journey, as Isaac Kenyon defies the odds and inspires us all to embrace the healing power of nature. Book Isaac for a talk which includes an exclusive viewing to watch the film and discover what it truly means to push boundaries, find inner strength, and embrace the natural wonders that surround us.

As far as I am aware I am now the first to complete this ultra-endurance running challenge. I have set a Fastest Known Time see here. The record attempt started in the early hours of Friday the 5th of August 2022 with the finish on the 8th of August 2022 at midday. The journey took 3 days, 4 hours, 25 minutes, and 4 seconds.

Film - “SOLO PEAKS”

This whole challenge was filmed by my good friend Jacob Chambers, and we documented the journey that traversed some of the best nature spots and countryside Wales has to offer. The film will share the importance of reconnecting with these outdoor spaces for both physical and mental well-being.

Where did the route take Isaac?

See Isaac’s route on the right, which he followed using the app Komoot (CLICK HERE) to view the route on Komoot itself).

Facts about the Welsh 3 Peaks run

Total Distance – 218km (135 miles) & Total Elevation – 7.5km

Isaac actually ran 233km as he went the wrong way a few times and covered 8,450m of elevation, almost the height of Everest!

Average distance ran per day ~60km. Estimated total energy demand (activity + resting BMR during the event): ≈ 23,046 kcal (177 bananas)

Total estimated time – 4 days (96 hours) sleeping 6 hours, running 12 hours with resting/recovery 6 hours. Isaac took 3 days, 4 hours, 25 minutes, and 4 seconds faster than schedule.

Height of each peak > Snowdon = 1,085m, Cadir Idris = 893m, Pen-Y-Fan (886m)

Environmental Considerations

Route Planning & Minimising Impact on Sensitive Landscapes: Running on established footpaths and waymarked trails helps to avoid erosion or damage to fragile ecosystems.
Sustainable Accommodation & Support Logistics: Staying in eco-certified campsites or low-impact lodging reduced our environmental footprint.
Food & Nutrition: We use locally sourced food for both me and the support team, which reduces food miles and supports local Welsh producers. We also made sure to minimise single-use packaging: use refillable containers, minimal plastic packaging, biodegradable wraps, or bulk food.
Waste Management: Isaac packed out all litter, even biodegradable materials, to leave no trace in sensitive mountain environments.
Reused kit: repurposed existing gear and equipment for this run.
Water Use and Sources: Isaac used natural Welsh water sources carefully by filtering water rather than carrying all of it, reducing the weight and number of plastic bottles. When relying on streams or springs, Isaac was careful to ensure that taking water did not disturb the local ecology.
Filming and Media Impact: Intentional to use a small crew of 1 filmmaker, who uses battery-powered or efficient equipment, and worked to minimise drone usage where not necessary, and avoid disrupting wildlife. The film narrative stated purpose of the run is reconnecting with the outdoors for mental well-being. This connection reinforces the value of protecting natural spaces, mental health benefits and environmental preservation go hand in hand.

Why Mental Health as the Cause?

I have suffered from anxiety and panic disorder for much of my adult life and the mental health charity Mind In Mid Herts (MiMH) has always been there for me. I am also a trustee of MiMH too.

A solo run of this nature is very lonely and will translate well into the mental health struggles to overcome in this challenge.