Up for a challenge with WSBH

Karen Neville

What are you doing this month? How about taking on the June Triple Challenge or having a go at dragon boat racing, all in aid of Woking & Sam Beare Hospice 

Three consecutive weekends of fundraising events begin with the Open Water Swim Challenge on June 14th before riders take to their bikes for the Downslink Challenge on 21st and finish with the Go Grab Life Walk on 29th. 

Swim in the serene surroundings of Shepperton Lake in the 400metre swim challenge for those who have previously experienced open water swimming and are over the age of 18. If you haven’t done open water swimming before, you will need to contact Shepperton Lake for an induction swim to go through safety rules followed by a swim test to ensure you are confident and comfortable swimming in an open water environment. 

Back on dry land, it’s time to tackle the challenging 83-mile off-road cycle ride from Worplesdon to Shoreham-on-Sea and back again along the scenic Downslink Trail. This is a serious endurance ride, expect around eight hours in the saddle but you’ll be rewarded with superb scenery, and a professional support team to keep you motivated and safe. There’s the option to do a shorter 50-mile version too.  

If you prefer a ‘gentler’ challenge then perhaps the Go Grab Life Walk at De Vere Horsley Estate is for you. You’ll be enveloped in history and heritage at every turn on the 4km or 8km (two laps) route around the estate taking in Horsely Towers and the lake.  

Full details at wsbh.org.uk/event/june-triple-challenge/ 

The name Go Grab Life was inspired by patient Nicky Newman, a breast cancer campaigner who shared her journey on social media. Her positive and honest outlook inspired others to “Go Grab Life” and make precious memories. Nicky was cared for by the hospice in 2023, providing palliative care to her whilst living at home before coming into the hospice.As Nicky said: “Go Grab Life, you never truly know what is coming round the corner, so don’t take anything for granted.” 

The walk is at 11am and includes free parking and entry to the Big Day Out, a family fun afternoon with live music, kids activities, food and drink and a classic car show also at Horsley Towers. 

With your support Woking & Sam Beare Hospice can continue to care for patients and their families when they need it most. 

June begins with the wacky fun of the Dragon Boat Races at Goldsworth Park Lakes on 8th. Get your Dragon Boat teams of family, friends, colleagues or team mates together and see if you can be crowned ‘champions of the lake’.Teams must be a minimum of 13 people (12 rowers plus a drummer) up to a maximum of 17 (16 rowers and a drummer), with a minimum of 3 races for each team. 

There’ll be stalls, refreshments including Pimms, a tombola, hot food and children’s activities to enjoy too. Please visit wsbh.org.uk/event/dragon-boat-races/ for more & to enter.