Each summer Headway holds an exciting Corporate Challenge event, and to help celebrate our 40th birthday, this year we decided to do something bigger than ever.
Around 50 people attended from 13 companies to take on all that Mother Nature could throw at them as they trekked, climbed and swam in Consiton, the Lake District.
Led by ex-army and mountaineering professionals from Challenge the Wild, the teams covered more than 20 miles over the two days, taking part in a range of thrilling and frightening activities along the way.
Activities included:
- Scrambling and rock climbing up Raven Crag with 300m of ascent
- Trekking over rugged terrain and hilltops
- Taking on a Tyrolean Zip over a quarry with a 200ft drop below
- Jumping 30ft from quarry cliffs into freezing cold water
- Going into the depths of dark caves and jumping into underwater cave systems
- Abseiling 150ft down a quarry wall
- Trekking to Cathedral Cave and exploring old mine tunnels in the pitch black
Julie Tucker, Manager at Markham House, Voyage Care, said she was inspired by the support of her team.
She said: “It was extreme. I went through every emotion such as fear, surprise, excitement, terror and pride, to name but a few.
“The team worked to get each other through the challenges and I couldn't have done it without them. I mean what type of a person follows a total stranger into a small stream headed into a flooded tunnel of an old abandoned slate mine soaked in total darkness, then follows an instruction from a face you cannot even see to slide down into an underground plunge pool that you will then have to swim out, all in total blackness? Our type of people, that's who!!”
“The feeling of accomplishment is hard to describe and for such a great cause, I am so proud to have been a part of it.”
Heather Petrie, Bolt Burdon Kemp, said each challenge tested participants in exciting and different ways.
She said: “For those scared of water, the cliff jumping and caving pushed them to their limits; for those scared of heights, the abseiling and zip wiring were the ultimate psych out; for those with little legs – well, let’s just say that the scrambling felt like a personal attack. The adrenaline coursed through everyone’s veins throughout the challenge.”
Andy White from HCML said the event surpassed all his expectations.
He said: “I knew the event was going to be fun, but I am not sure I was prepared for how much of a challenge it actually was. I think most people were able to conquer a personal fear with the support of the team. It really was a fantastic event and all to raise money for such a fantastic cause.”
Stuart Hughes, from Birchall Blackburn Law came away from the event pleased that he met the challenge.
He said: “It was a fantastic and friendly event but also challenging enough to make you feel that you've really achieved something - and earned your sponsorship!
“Everyone was really supportive and the guide team were brilliant. After the day-and-a-half I left feeling tired and happy. And, as well as being a great life experience, we got to raise money for an ace charity doing life changing work. I've been telling everyone to get involved next year!”
On the first day, an evening event and BBQ was also held, where Headway Ambassador and Paralympian, Jack Rutter spoke about his personal experience and journey with brain injury which led him to representing Great Britain at the Rio Paralympics.
It really brought home to everyone how a brain injury can happen to anyone, at any time, and just how important their fundraising really is.
The event has raised nearly £15,000 to date for Headway’s UK-wide frontline services.
Thank you to all the teams that took part
A Chance for Life, Active Care Group, Birchall Blackburn, Bolt Burdon Kemp, FBC Manby Bowdler, HCML (Health & Case Management Ltd), Jefferies Solicitors, McMillan Williams Solicitors, Nestor Financial Group Ltd, Simpson Millar, Spencers Solicitors, Stephensons Solicitors and Voyage Care.
Additional thanks to the following who donated prizes for our intrepid Go Wilders: Concerva, Frenkel Topping, Lanyon Bowdler, Old Square Chambers, Rehab Without Walls
Would you like to join Headway as a Corporate Member or take part in next year’s challenge? Contact partnerships@headway.org.uk to express your interest!
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