The inaugural Surrey Hills Challenge charity event on Sunday 25th September was a huge success. Over 500 entrants participated in walking or running challenges on the beautiful landscape of the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).
People of all ages and fitness joined the event which saw competitors and families walk or run the Challenge. Participants were able to choose between completing either 5km, 10km, a half marathon (21km) or a 60km ultra marathon! An enthusiastic team of volunteer marshals cheered on the competitors, with the themed aid stations proving a popular talking point along the route.
The event aimed to raise awareness and funds for the Community Foundation for Surrey and the Surrey Hills Trust Fund. Teams from both charities entered the Surrey Hills Challenge while several members of the Foundation were present to talk to participants and spectators about our work supporting local community and voluntary groups.
Jamie McAllister, Event Director, Surrey Hills Challenge comments:
“We are thrilled with the success of the first Surrey Hills Challenge. The event offered four completely different sporting events for all abilities and we have been overwhelmed with all the positive feedback from everyone that took part. The event not only showcased the beautiful Surrey Hills but also helped raises awareness of the fundraising needs of the Community Foundation for Surrey and the Surrey Hills Trust Fund. We look forward to building on this in 2017!”
Wendy Varcoe, Executive Director of the Community Foundation for Surrey comments;
“It was wonderful to see so many families, walkers and runners of all ages and abilities from communities across the county enjoying the inspiring landscape of the Surrey Hills. The event was a great success and we look forward to it continuing for many years to come.”
Chairman of the Surrey Hills Trust Fund, Neil Maltby comments;
“The support received for this event was fantastic and a great opportunity for people taking part to not only learn more about The Surrey Hills Trust Fund but understand how they can help to safeguard this beautiful area for future generations.”
All money raised will be split equally between the Community Foundation for Surrey and the Surrey Hills Trust Fund. Both organisations will use these funds to continue supporting local communities across Surrey and contributing to the conservation of the unique Surrey Hills countryside.
If the Surrey Hills Challenge has inspired you, you are still able to donate via BTMyDonate.
The Surrey Hills Challenge will soon release details of their 2017 event.
Gallery of photos from the inaugural Surrey Hills Challenge
