In a world where adventures and challenges seem to be the norm, one man has taken on a task that is both absurd and inspiring at the same time. Matt Jones, a resident of the UK, made a bet with his late wife about trekking the Clwydian Range twice with a fridge on his back. What started as a joke between the couple, turned into an incredible journey of determination and courage.
The Clwydian Range is a series of hills and mountains in North Wales, known for its scenic beauty and challenging treks. It’s a destination that attracts hikers and adventurers from all over the world. But for Matt, this was not just another trek. It was a tribute to his late wife and a personal challenge that he was determined to conquer.
The idea of trekking the Clwydian Range with a fridge on his back came about when Matt and his wife, Stacey, were discussing their past adventures. They had always been an adventurous couple, but as they grew older, their priorities shifted and they found themselves settling into a more comfortable lifestyle. It was during one of these conversations that Stacey challenged Matt to trek the Clwydian Range with a fridge on his back. It was meant to be a joke, but Matt took it seriously.
Matt and Stacey had always pushed each other to be their best selves, and even after Stacey’s passing, she continued to motivate and inspire Matt. He saw this challenge as an opportunity to honor her memory and also to push himself out of his comfort zone. And so, with the support of his friends and family, Matt began training for his Fridgewalk.
Training for the Fridgewalk was not an easy task. Matt had to build up his strength and endurance to be able to carry a fridge on his back for long periods. He also had to find a suitable fridge that was lightweight and easy to carry. But more than the physical training, Matt had to prepare himself mentally for the trek. He knew that it would not be a walk in the park, but he was determined to push through any obstacles that came his way.
On July 28th, 2018, Matt set off on his Fridgewalk. He had a small group of supporters with him, including his children and members of his late wife’s family. The first leg of the trek was 13 miles, starting from Loggerheads Country Park and ending at the summit of Moel Famau, the highest peak in the Clwydian Range. The second leg was a grueling 15-mile trek from Moel Famau to Prestatyn.
Carrying a fridge on your back for 28 miles is no easy feat, but Matt’s determination and motivation never wavered. He pushed through exhaustion, the weight of the fridge, and the physical toll of the challenging terrain. But what kept him going was the memory of his late wife and the cause behind his Fridgewalk.
Matt’s Fridgewalk was not just a personal challenge, but also a fundraiser for two charities close to his heart – The Brain Tumour Charity and Bowel Cancer UK. Stacey had battled with both brain and bowel cancer before her passing, and Matt wanted to do something meaningful in her memory. He raised over £32,000 for the two charities, and his Fridgewalk received widespread media attention, turning it into a national event.
Matt’s Fridgewalk was not only an incredible physical feat but also a testament to the power of human determination and resilience. His journey inspired many and brought people together in support of a meaningful cause. Matt showed that sometimes, even the most absurd challenges can have a purpose and a positive impact on the world.
In the end, Matt successfully completed his Fridgewalk, trekking the Clwydian Range twice with a fridge on his back. It was a proud moment for him and his supporters, but more importantly, it was a way for Matt to honor the memory of his late wife and continue her legacy of adventure and inspiration.
Matt’s story teaches us that even in the face of tragedy, we can find strength and purpose. His Fridgewalk is a testament to the power of love, determination, and the human spirit. It has left a lasting impact on those who followed his journey, and it will continue to inspire others to take on their own challenges and make a positive difference in the world.
