30RunsIn30Days and 30WalksIn30Days finished on Friday, with the final fundraising figures still to be added up.
Les Bourgs fundraising administrator Liz Stonebridge said it felt very fortunate to be able to hold its annual events, including 30WalksIn30Days, which had been deferred from April. 30Runs encouraged people to set individual running challenges, such as a couch to 5k or other target mileage. Emphasis was on individual ability, taking rest days, and working toward a group run and social on the final day organised by event sponsor Appleby.
‘It was fantastic to see a group of 25 people coming together at the end of their challenge,’ Ms Stonebridge said.
Over 150 registered for the event in total, consistent with last year’s totals.
‘There was a real buzz as they headed off for their final run.
‘It was a great opportunity for them to share stories about their sense of achievement if they had never run before or what training plans they followed for the more serious runners.’
Runners were not discouraged by the weather.
‘Although there were times that pulling on a pair of trainers to head out into the rain didn’t seem very appealing, the consensus seemed to be that it always made people feel good and they benefited from staying active during the autumn when they could easily hibernate in front of the television.’
Supported by Printed in Guernsey, 30Walks encouraged daily walks of half an hour, either as exercise or changing commuting habits, such as parking further away from destinations.
Les Bourgs hoped to raise awareness of the Health Improvement Commission’s recently launched initiative ‘Walk This Way’, plus various walking routes promoted by the National Trust of Guernsey, Visit Guernsey, Living Streets and the States of Guernsey’s Ruettes Tranquille.
Usually held in spring and deferred due to the pandemic, 30Walks saw half the number of last year’s participants yet had positive feedback.
Shorter days and more autumnal weather looks to have had an impact on the number of people taking part, with just over 50 people signing up.
The feedback received from people taking part was extremely positive though, with comments that people felt more energised and healthier for it.
It will revert to April next year.
‘We are still collating final figures but are extremely grateful to everyone who supported the hospice by taking part or sponsoring someone.’
Planning for next year’s events is under way, with hopes to have record registrations in line with the hospice’s 30th birthday.
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