This is a 24km route march in the Brecon Beacons which is infamous within the ranks of all UKSF soldiers. It is now over 50 years old and still today forms the first major hurdle on Selection and is a major indicator of whether a potential UKSF soldier has the physical and mental determination to complete it within the cut off time set by the D.S (Directing Staff). The route starts and finishes at The Storey Arms Outdoor Education Centre and ascends Pen y Fan which is 2,907 feet (886 m…). The turn round point is at Torpantau where candidates will have to quickly turn round then return using the same route back up and over Pen y Fan via a very steep path known as Jacobs Ladder.

Why I'm Doing It

Hi my name is Lee Falconer and I am taking part in an infamous trek up Pen Y Fan In the Brecon Beacons. It is the highest hill in South Wales and known for being part of the special forces recruit (SAS) Training.
The route is 24 km long with the first 12 km going up a moderately steep 719 meter climb to the top. Once at the top you have to climb down a Very steep cliff Like drop to reach the turning point. You have 2 1/2 hours to complete this first section.
At the turning point you literally turn around then immediately climb back up that 719 meter steep hill back to the top. The rest of the route from that point being on a moderate downhill gradient to the finish line.
I am doing it for the 2 charities that the SAS have chosen but I am also trying to raise money for the Royal British Legion who were always by my side when I was in crisis after a mental breakdown last September and living on the streets.

They were always there for support and trying to care for me the best they could by putting me into hotels, Giving me vouchers to get food and point me in the right direction to find help, always by my side.

I now have a flat in town and it is fully kitted out, the RBL paid for everything. The flat was a mess when I moved in and needed a lot of work. I now have a lovely little flat fully set up with everything I need and it's thanks to the RBL. They paid for everything!

I am doing this also for myself to take back some control of my life and give myself challenges and goals as I'm still too unwell to get back into working but mainly this is for the Royal British Legion for all the help they have given me and continue to do so.

I would not be where I am now if it wasn't for them, I wouldn't like to think what would have happened to me without their help and support.

This is my way of thanking them.

Thank you for your donations to this amazing cause.

Best wishes,

Lee Falconer.