Yorkshire Three Peaks tortoise and hare challengers Peter Dennis and Jonathan Kattenberg

Two outdoor enthusiasts are preparing for a ‘tortoise and hare’ charity challenge in the Yorkshire Dales.

Peter Dennis will attempt to walk the Yorkshire Three Peaks in less than 10 hours – but his friend Jonathan Kattenberg is aiming to run the route twice at the same time.

The challenge involves summiting Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough in a 39km (24-mile) route involving about 1,600m (5,250ft) of ascent.

The pair aim to raise cash for York-based charity Snappy, which provides activities for young people with special needs.

They will also have to contend with whatever winter weather the Dales throw at them during the venture next month.

Mr Kattenberg said: “It will be a test of stamina and mindset, having never run 48 miles in one race – never mind trying to beat Peter.

The pair could face wintry weather during their challenge, which includes Pen-y-ghent

“As we all know, the good old British weather can be quite unpredictable, especially over the Yorkshire Three Peaks. It could be a great winter sun-shining day, throwing it down with rain with gusting wind and even freezing temperatures with lots of snow on the tops.”

The men are inviting members of the public to join them during their effort on 25 January.

Mr Kattenberg said: “We don’t just want this to be a challenge for us; we want the whole of Yorkshire to get involved.

“Come along and challenge yourself – be it walking or running whole or part of the way. It’s a family day out raising money for a really worthwhile cause.

“Plus, I think after 48 miles I’m going to need some cheering on.”

He will also be running the Marathon Des Sables in April – six marathons across the Sahara Desert.

The runner aims to raise £40,000 for the charity through his physical challenges, the sale of the book Dream to Reality, co-written with Dawn Grossart, and through sales of specially commissioned Proud to Lead by Example t-shirts.

“Dream to Reality was the starting point for the challenges”, he said. “The book shows that when you truly believe in the achievement of your goals, the sky really is your limit.

“It also shows how to create a plan to achieve your goals, along with strong inner confidence and personal happiness. We feel strongly that all young people are equipped with this knowledge to create their best life possible.”

The base for the tortoise and hare event is Holme Farm, Horton in Ribblesdale.

More details of the charity are on the Reality Productions website.