As the players gear up for their final home game of the season, former Hammer and West Ham United Foundation ambassador Marlon Harewood is getting ready to take on the notoriously difficult Three Peaks Challenge on Saturday in support of the Club's official charity.
The challenge, which will see Harewood team up with fellow Foundation supporters Barrington Atkins and Peter Toole, consists of climbing the highest mountains in Scotland, England and Wales within a 24-hour timeframe, covering over 23 miles with 3,064 metres of vertical ascent, all while navigating 450 miles of driving between peaks.
Harewood, former Hammer turned businessman, is leading the charge. Dedicated to fostering positive pathways for young people – naturally taking a keen interest in football – Marlon is an instrumental ambassador for the WHU Foundation. Documenting his training on his social media, Marlon is excited to push his limits while raising crucial funds for the Foundation’s community initiatives.
He said: “As a proud ambassador of the Foundation for many years now and as part of the wider West Ham United Family, it’s brilliant to be able to get involved in such a big challenge raising money for the community, supporting those who need it most.”
Barrington Atkins, a highly regarded Sports Litigation Partner at JMW Solicitors and a good friend of Marlon's, brings his passion for social mobility to the team. Also an ambassador for the Foundation, he’s dedicated to inspiring and providing opportunities for students in the business arena.
Peter Toole on the other hand - who leads a team of client relationship directors at the WHU Foundation’s Patron Corporate Partner, Paragon - finds solace in outdoor adventures with his family and two well-behaved dogs. Known for his love of challenges, Peter eagerly jumped at the opportunity to participate in the Three Peaks Challenge, looking forward to the teamwork needed to accomplish the task within the strict 24 hours.
Despite the daunting nature of the journey ahead, they remain resolute in their commitment to leveraging the power of football to drive positive social change. Their motivation lies in supporting the Foundation's vital work and making a tangible difference through this gruelling challenge.
“I know first-hand the life-changing difference that can be made by the funds raised through these types of activities,” Harewood emphasised. “For me, when the Three Peaks Challenge got mentioned, I was moved to bring a group together and take this on.”
As they take on Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon, they carry with them the support of the West Ham United community and the knowledge that every step they take brings them closer to their goal of raising crucial funds for the Foundation’s initiatives.
If you would like to support the team in raising funds for the West Ham United Foundation, please visit the team's Give Wheel HERE.
