2017 was another the year off the bike. It was long time since I injured my hip and some nerves in the region but I still don't lose hope. It is for this reason that, for a second consecutive year, I decided to take part in the South Coast Challenge, walking 100km from Eastbourn to Arundel. I completed the challenge in 26hrs and physically recovered faster than expected. This year I was accompanied my wife, Sakina, and my son, Leonardo, who walked with me for about 23km. The plan was for Leonardo to do 50km with me but poor little thing he developed a skin rush and we decided it was to stop. Leonardo did this really amazing for his young age (10 months old). We can say that this was Leonardo's first ever challenge and, hopefully, one of many. I must say that he was the true champion (as he stood up with the heat for hours). Many people that took part of the challenge were inspired by the fact that such a little creature could take part in such event. One challenger told me that they felt inspired but also felt pity for me!
The weather was increadibly amazing from start to finish and, due to training, my body responded increadibly well this time. I must say that, due to excellent weather conditions, I developed only one blister (and not on the sole of my foot this time round) and was treated well. In addition, the body has memory and could more easily endure the 100km without problems. This time round I took with me walking sticks, which helped massively towards the end, but I am pretty sure I could have done without them too.
We raised £1187.19 (and my employer matched this amount with a £350 generous) for War Child, smashing our £800 target. I am very grateful for all the support. You can visit my Justgiving page.
I would like to share the email I received from War Child:
"Hi Federico,
First of all thank you for such a lovely email. We are so pleased that you felt so well taken care of during your fundraising!
A huge congratulations on finishing the South Coast Challenge in 26 hours. I hope you are now relaxing and enjoying your success.
On behalf of War Child and the children we support I would like to say a MASSIVE THANK YOU for doing the South Coast Challenge in aid of our work, as well as your fantastic fundraising - you absolutely smashed it!
Your final total of £1477 will make a real difference to children like Nour, whose lives have been devastated by conflicts around the world. After Nour fled her home in Syria, she was withdrawn and aggressive, lashing out at her younger sister. With War Child's help, she's beginning to recover - she's making friends and is a lot calmer. It's just the start and War Child will continue to help Nour and her family cope with their experiences.
Through our "I Deal" counselling sessions, you're helping us reach the most vulnerable and traumatised children like Nour, and their families, to help them better cope with everyday life after conflict, bringing happiness and hope back into their lives.
It's not a simple or quick fix and it's down to people like you that we are able to provide long-term support to children and their families.
War Child is the only organisation dedicated to delivering this kind of specialist support for children affected by conflicts around the world but we couldn't continue without you. I hope you are very proud of the difference you are making!
Thank you so much.
Have a great day and stay in touch!
Kind Regards,
War Child