Time running out for climbing team on five peaks challenge

Time was running out yesterday evening for the team of charity climbers, including this reporter, attempting to scale the five highest peaks in these islands in 24 hours.

Heavy mist in Shannon yesterday morning stranded the team's helicopter, causing a crucial five-hour delay in their departure from the foot of Carrauntoohil, Ireland's highest mountain.

By yesterday evening the team had climbed the highest mountains in the Republic, the North and Wales and were nearing the top of Scafell Pike in the Lake District, England's tallest peak.

However, it was looking unlikely that the climbers would be able to descend in time to make the trip by helicopter to the foot of Ben Nevis in Scotland, as the helicopter is unable to travel after dark.

Late last night the team was looking at other logistical possibilities, including travelling by car from Glasgow to Ben Nevis or resuming the helicopter flights after first light.

The five peaks challenge began at 6 a.m. with the ascent of Carrauntoohil, reached in 2 3/4 hours. The team then travelled to Slieve Donard in Northern Ireland which took two hours and five minutes. Snowdon in Wales was climbed in two hours and 15 minutes.

So far, two of the original 12-person team have retired due to injury or exhaustion.