The Princess of Wales has revealed she was "blown away" by the public's generosity following her gruelling Three Peaks Challenge, despite enduring "atrocious" weather conditions during the feat.
Speaking at Wimbledon last week, Kate described the experience as "a very sort of stoically British thing to do."
The future queen successfully hiked the highest mountains in Scotland, England, and Wales – Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon – within a demanding 24-hour window at the end of June. Her ambitious endeavour aimed to raise vital funds for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, with a mission to "explore life beyond diagnosis."
The Princess shared details of her adventure during a conversation with former British tennis number one Tim Henman and Deborah Jevans, chairwoman of the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC), at Wimbledon last Thursday, where she had been watching Briton Arthur Fery play.
Their exchange was captured for a special edition of Overheard at Wimbledon, a social media series. Henman inquired about her preparation and the 24-hour timeframe, to which Kate responded: "I did it in 24 hours, yeah."
Reflecting on the challenge, Kate emphasised the importance of the journey itself.
"That was the challenge anyway, I think, but I think part of the journey was trying to enjoy the process, like the training beforehand, but also making time… during the walk to meet people and enjoy the journey, rather than just actually just quickly getting to the top," she explained.
She vividly recalled the conditions: "The weather was atrocious. I mean, everybody got soaked through, but it was a very sort of stoically British thing to do. You know, you’re soaking wet, and everyone’s going ‘come on, we can do it’."
When asked about the charitable aspect, Kate affirmed: "Yes, it was for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. I’ve just been so blown away by all the donations and all things. Everyone’s been so generous.
“That’s what keeps you going, it’s when you know you’re doing it for a good cause. Keeps you going through the hard times."
Following her completion in June, the Princess was met by her family, including the Prince of Wales and their children, along with her parents and brother. Kensington Palace has indicated that this expedition marks a royal first, with Kate being the inaugural member of the Royal Family to conquer the Three Peaks Challenge. The Princess, who is also patron of the All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC), regularly attends the Wimbledon championships.
