A PHOTOGRAPHER is on the verge of completing an extraordinary personal challenge, climbing all 214 Wainwright peaks in the Lake District within 12 months.

As his challenge nears its conclusion with seven more Wainwrights to go, Carlos Reina Silvestre invites supporters to join him for his final walk on December 1 (weather permitting), marking the end of his year-long effort.

In addition to managing his own photography business, home and family life with his fiancée Karen and daughter Olivia, Carlos has spent the year conquering the fells, tackling everything from steep climbs to unpredictable weather, all while raising awareness and funds for Hospice at Home West Cumbria and Wasdale Mountain Rescue Team.

Reflecting on the experience, Carlos, who lives in St Bees, said: “I’m often asked what the hardest part has been - the most challenging parts for me have been finding the time as it has been the busiest year for my business and planning for weather that allows for a good walk.”

Carlos started his Wainwright journey with no fell walking gear or experience tackling the fells, and he has learned a lot as he progresses through them. So far, Carlos has completed 735km, walked for 217 hours, and ascended around 48,000m—that’s around 5.5 times the height of Mount Everest.

When asked which charities he wanted to support, Carlos said: “I chose to raise money for Hospice at Home West Cumbria as I have seen their incredible work within the community and worked alongside them during Gary McKee’s 365 Marathon Challenge.

“And due to the nature of my Wainwright challenge, Wasdale Mountain Rescue was a perfect choice - especially with the work they do in keeping walkers safe.”

Holly Harkness, community fundraising co-ordinator at Hospice at Home West Cumbria, said: “We first met Carlos in 2022 when he supported Gary Mckee on his 365 marathons challenge. We were delighted when Carlos told us that he was planning his own mammoth challenge to raise funds to support our vital palliative and end-of-life services.

“It’s been great to see him tick the summits off across the year, enduring everything that the Cumbrian weather has thrown at him and spreading the word about our work. We wish him the best of luck as he reaches his final challenge. Thank you for the fantastic support.”

Richard Warren, spokesperson for Wasdale Mountain Rescue, said, "This year has been an extremely busy time for our volunteer rescuers, with over 160 callouts and an anticipated 180 by the end of 2024. Running the team costs over £100,000 every year, and this is all covered through generous donations such as that raised by Carlos with his 2024 Wainright Challenge. 

“It is a very fitting challenge and not something usually done so quickly, so hats off to Carlos. We wish him all the best for his final ascent of Lattrigg and what will be a very well-deserved rest. "

Search for Wainwrights Challenge 2024 by Carlos Reina on Facebook and to donate, search for Carlos Reina on Just Giving.