Stonehenge
Julia’s House, the Dorset and Wiltshire children’s hospice charity, is inviting people to sign up to one of their Challenge fundraising events for 2019.
The five events offer an exciting opportunity to step outside your comfort zone and achieve something truly amazing, whilst raising funds to help children living with life-limiting conditions. Choose from a Jurassic Coast trek, a tandem skydive, two cycle challenges – one through Mallorca’s stunning coastal scenery or one closer to home in the Dorset/Wiltshire countryside – or you may prefer to pull on your running shoes and take part in the popular Bournemouth Marathon Festival.
“By signing up to one of our 2019 Challenge events you can make a big difference to the lives of local, life-limited children and their families,” explains Hannah Miller, Challenge Events Manager for Julia’s House. “We rely on events like this to help us throw a lifeline to mums and dads facing their own enormous challenges every day.”
The season begins on 8 June with the Jurassic Coast Trek – a challenging 13 or 26 mile hike which takes in breathtaking views along Dorset’s stunning coastline. Begin the walk at Osmington for the full trek, passing landmark sights including Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, or join the trail at Kimmeridge for a shorter option as you make your way to Acton Field Campsite near Swanage. All participants will be able to celebrate their achievements with a complimentary hog roast and glass of prosecco at the finish line.
Could you be brave for just one minute to help a child feel brave for a lifetime? Take part in The Big Jump on 3 August and experience the thrill of a tandem skydive, jumping from 13,000 feet under the control of an experienced instructor. A dedicated contact at Julia’s House will give you one-to-one support all the way and will be there on the day to watch your jump at the Army Parachute Association near Salisbury.
New for 2019 is the Mallorca Cycle Challenge (12-16 September), an epic 4-day adventure during which you will conquer the best and most picturesque climbs on the island, including the iconic Sa Colbara, Puig Major and the breathtaking Cap de Formentor. Exclusive to Julia’s House fundraisers, the Mallorca Cycle Challenge offers a unique opportunity to test your cycling to the limit. Find out if this amazing adventure is for you at a free information evening at the charity’s Dorset hospice in Corfe Mullen on 26 February. David Williams, an experienced ride captain will be on hand to explain all about the challenges of cycling in Mallorca. You’ll be able to ask questions about the ride, get advice on fundraising from the Julia’s House team and discover how the money you raise will make a difference to local children and their families.
There’s also an opportunity to get on your bike closer to home with The Big Ride on 22 September. Tough hill climbs, quiet rural roads and spectacular views combine in this classic cycle event starting from the gorgeous Larmer Tree Gardens on the Dorset/Wiltshire border. Taking in a choice of two circular routes of 50 or 100 miles, The Big Ride is suitable for seasoned cyclists or anyone looking for a fresh goal to boost their fitness.
If running is more your style, the Bournemouth Marathon Festival (5-6 October) provides an irresistible combination of vibrant atmosphere, fresh sea air and fabulous views. Best of all, it offers something for all ages and all levels of fitness, from the challenge of a full-on marathon to a Kids’ K – meaning your family can run for Julia’s House families.
Anybody interested in signing up for a Challenge event can find more information at juliashouse.org/challenge or call Hannah Miller on 01202 644262.
