Former Household Cavalry soldier, Jack Campbell, is currently climbing all 282 Munros in Scotland in order to raise funds for the Household Cavalry Foundation. He has recently achieved his half way milestone and with the end of his fundraising challenge in sight, we caught up with him in between climbs to see how he is getting on with his epic feat.
What made you decide to climb all 282 Munros (mountains 3000ft above sea level) in Scotland as your fundraising challenge?
“Having been raised in Scotland, climbing all 282 Munros seemed like the sensible choice for a fundraising activity! I believe there are enough mountains to make it a difficult, yet achievable challenge.”
How are you finding the task so far? Does it differ from your expectations when you first chose to tackle the challenge?
“I am now enjoying it far more than I thought I would. The first few weeks were a real challenge in terms of fitness, the temperamental weather and being away from my family and friends. Now I am fit and in a routine, it is really good fun and the end is in almost in sight.”
Which was your favourite mountain to climb so far?
“My favourite mountain has to be Ben Lui near Tyndrum. I climbed it on a beautiful sunny day in the snow and it was the first time on my journey that I completed three Munros in a day.”
So how many Munros have you managed to climb in one day?
“I did the Mamores in the Glen Nevis valley which was one Munro out of the ten that I achieved in the space of one day. It nearly killed me as I did 26.5 miles over 13.5 hours. I was so tired but it was amazingly satisfying to get so many done in such a short space of time.”
How are you finding camping out in your van?
“The van has become my new home; it is very comfortable and I have everything I need to get by; a cooker, a fridge, a bed and lots of good books to read.”
During your Munro Hunter challenge, what does your average week consist of?
“My life is very simple at the moment; all I do is eat, sleep and climb. I plan the day ahead on my map and once I have completed the Munros I have set myself I update my log book accordingly. I have dinner and then read for a bit before falling asleep, which happens rather early most nights due to exhaustion from the day’s climbing!”
Did you enjoy your time in the Household Cavalry as a Captain in The Life Guards?
“I loved every minute with the Regiment, the soldiers and officers are the most professional and proud I have come across throughout my time in the Army.”
Why did you choose to raise money for HCF?
“The HCF does great work for all aspects of the Regiment. I feel very strongly that the work should continue to ensure our men have the best quality of life possible and that the heritage of the Regiment is protected.”
You can follow Jack’s progress at his website by clicking here or you can sponsor him on his Just Giving page here.
Your support is greatly appreciated and the money raised will allow HCF to continue to provide crucial aid to members of the wider Household Cavalry family.
