A Solent University student is raising money for charity in memory of his late uncle by taking part in a gruelling mountain climb.
Josh Boutwood is due to take part in The Three Peaks Challenge, one of the toughest climbs in the UK which involves scaling the highest mountains in England, Wales and Scotland (Scafell Pike, Snowdon and Ben Nevis) consecutively within three days.
Josh is one of 14 students who has already helped to raise over £1,200 by cycling a combined distance of over 700km in twelve hours.
Participants are required to raise money individually before the event in order to take part, with students from the University completing an indoor cycling exercise.
The student is dedicating his fundraising efforts in memory of his uncle, who sadly passed away during the COVID-19 pandemic.
WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature) was the chosen charity, which raises money towards sustainability and protecting endangered species of wildlife and their habitats.
Speaking with Sports Across the Pond Podcast, Josh explained why the event was so important to him:
“My uncle was an avid mountaineer, and he passed away during covid. I never really got a moment to do something for him, so I saw this come up and thought this would make my aunt feel good because it is keeping his legacy alive. He was really passionate about the natural world, I mean he’s literally going to be a tree, so I thought what a way to honour him”
Josh Boutwood, Solent Student
Josh also told the podcast about some of the work WWF is doing to help the environment and tackle climate change:
“There’s a big one they’re doing with underwater kelp, in trying to replant some kelp forests, underwater kelp is quite good at of-setting carbon and absorbing carbon dioxide in the air. It’s really beneficial in trying to stop climate change, which is were WWF is headed.
Josh Boutwood, Solent Student
The challenge will begin in June with students now using the time to improve their fitness and raise their entry fee of £690.
