Cheltenham Circular Challenge 2008

22 June – While your muscles probably won’t thank you the day after, a host of local charities most certainly will, if you take part in the Cheltenham Circular Challenge 2008.

The fit, and not-so fit, from across Gloucestershire are invited to take part in Cheltenham Circular Challenge 2008 – a fun an energetic charity fundraising walk through the county’s countryside that saw more than 1,000 participants join in last summer, despite the now legendary downpours.

Organised by The Rotary Club of Cheltenham Cleeve Vale for more than ten years now, sponsored walkers of all shapes and sizes can raise funds at the event for dozens of Gloucestershire charities: including Sue Ryder Care; the National Star Centre; the County Air Ambulance; Cotswold Care Hospital and The Cobalt Appeal. Plus, if you are involved with a local charity you can also sign-up – and get others to sign-up too – to raise money for your own cause.

Cheltenham Circular Challenge 2008 is divided into four sections, which organisers say each comes with a distinct natural beauty and interest to walkers, as well as being suitable for all ages and fitness levels. And if you’re feeling particularly energetic, all four sections can be combined to make an official marathon route with a total length of just over 26 miles of beautiful countryside – serious competitors might like to know that the record for the fastest finishing times currently stands at 4 hours 15 minutes for the men and 4 hours 26 minutes for the women.

Taking in a route which spans the Cheltenham Circular Footpath, walkers will start from Cheltenham Racecourse, before climbing uphill to the escarpment, through villages and open countryside, before reaching the finish line at the racecourse once again. Buses are provided to return walkers doing individual stages back to the starting point and a booklet is provided for all participants, pointing out the route and points of interest along the way.

While the full Cheltenham Circular Challenge is unquestionably tiring, a fun – and demanding – day is said to be had by all. Last year’s event raised more than £40,000 for local charities – and this year the turnout is expected to be even bigger. So dig out your walking shoes and get phoning The Rotary Club of Cheltenham Cleeve Vale for more information.

Event: Cheltenham Circular Challenge 2008
Venue: From Cheltenham Racecourse
Dates: Sunday 22 June 2008
Times: From 7am to 7pm
Tickets: Entry costs £8 for adults and £4 for children. Phone (01242) 269479 for more information.

SoGlos.com
16 April 2008