Three Peaks Yacht Race

The Three Peaks Yacht Race is the original and unique physical challenge for sailors and athletes. The gruelling run up the three highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales, tough coastal sailing and competitive environment make for a humbling experience for all teams with most simply hoping to finish. Existing for over 30 years, the race has been imitated around the world and attracts some of the best international sailors and athletes.

The teams consist of three sailors and two runners, who must endure 389 miles of difficult coastal sailing, 18 miles of cycling and 72 miles of running up a total of 14,000 feet. Setting off from Barmouth on the Welsh coast, the teams must reach Fort William on Scotland via Caernarfon and Whitehaven, climbing Snowdon, Scafell Pike and Ben Nevis. The team who wins will be the first to have their runners return to the yacht in Fort William after climbing Ben Nevis and having successfully completed the prior mountainous and sailing route. The race is named after its inspiration, Major H. W. Tilman, a writer and adventurer who lived in Barmouth, and reflects his own intrepid life. To finish the Three Peaks Yacht Race is a lifetime achievement and true sailing and endurance feat. When choosing a team, competitors will have to consider a balance between athleticism and sailing ability as in both areas this will stretch anyone. Only monohulls are permitted and there are various prizes from the fastest runners to all women teams.