Take on a new fitness challenge this year and make a difference for seriously ill children and their families in Wiltshire with Julia’s House children’s hospice.
The local children’s hospice charity has launched five physical fundraising events for 2021, all designed with a COVID-safe focus. The challenges will allow for social distancing or take place in small, COVID-secure groups to provide maximum reassurance as restrictions ease.
See the highlights of Wiltshire or venture over for a coastal walk in Dorset with one of the charity’s Hike for your Hospice events, with groups of up to 30 people. Wind your way through Wiltshire and Dorset countryside with the charity’s Big Ride cycling event. Or take in your local landscape from the skies with the Big Jump challenge. Plus, you can sign up for Run Bournemouth with Julia’s House, or choose your own activity to complete any of the charity’s Seven Wonders of the World virtual challenges.
Like many charities, Julia’s House was forced to cancel numerous events last year and the charity’s public fundraising activity was severely impacted by lockdowns and social distancing requirements.
Hannah Miller, Events Manager for Julia’s House, said, “Despite the amazing support of the local community, our fundraising income was hit hard by last year’s lockdowns, resulting in a deficit of around £2.5m. We know many of our supporters were disappointed not to be able to take part in a Julia’s House event and have fun raising money for the care of local seriously ill children and families during 2020. So we’re really excited to be launching our new physical challenges for 2021 that everyone can get involved in safely.”
Which Julia’s House fundraising challenge will you choose?
Hike for your Hospice: In partnership with Osprey, Julia’s House has cherry-picked nine of the very best hiking routes across Wiltshire and Dorset for Hike for your Hospice, from 10-12 September. Each route promises unforgettable views, legendary landmarks and distances and terrain to exhilarate every level of hiker. These guided hikes take place in groups of 30, starting and finishing at a country pub where you can celebrate your achievements with a delicious meal.
Big Jump: Thrill seekers need look no further – the Julia’s House Big Jump, taking place on 5 September from the Army Parachute Association near Salisbury, is the challenge you’ve been waiting for. Feel the adrenaline rush as you jump from 13,000 feet and reach speeds of up to 120mph. You will freefall for a minute before your instructor releases your parachute and you glide towards the ground. This is a tandem skydive so your instructor is in complete control of the jump throughout - all you need to do is kick back and enjoy the ride, taking in all the spectacular views on the way down.
The Big Ride: A firm favourite on the Julia’s House calendar, The Big Ride, sponsored by Muc-Off, takes place on 10 October. This is an event that really lives up to its name, with big cycle routes, big climbs and big vistas. Starting and finishing at Horton and Chalbury Village Hall near Wimborne, you’ll wind your way through some of the finest countryside in Wiltshire and Dorset. Choose from three circular routes of 25, 50 or 100 miles and upsize your cycling experience in a big way.
Run Bournemouth: If running is more your thing, Run Bournemouth, from 9-10 October, provides a combination of vibrant atmosphere, fresh air and fabulous coastal views. There’s plenty for all ages and fitness levels, from the challenge of a half marathon to a 10k or 5k run. There are also junior races for children aged three to 12, so your family can run for the families supported by Julia’s House. When you sign up you’ll receive one-to-one support from the charity’s events team, a free running vest or t-shirt and access to a Fundraisers Facebook Group, where you’ll be kept updated and provided with plenty of tips to help with your fundraising.
Seven Wonders of the World: Already underway and running throughout the year, the charity’s Seven Wonders of the World virtual fitness challenge, sponsored by Addo Food Group, gives you the chance to travel to some of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations such as Machu Picchu, the Colosseum or the Great Wall of China. Participants can track their progress on a mobile app and explore the sights along the way on Google Street View as they run, walk, cycle or exercise their way to fitness. Each route costs £12.99, with a medal on completion - or you may choose to challenge yourself to the max by taking on all seven routes for just £30 when you commit to raising £200.
To sign up for any of the 2021 Julia’s House fundraising events, visit www.juliashouse.org/events