Fundraising Stories
Meet some inspirational people who have fundraised on the Trail, for the Trail:
Becca took on 10 marathons in 10 days:
“The trails are my playground, my happy place. I was lucky enough to spend 10 consecutive days in the summer on the Coast Path and I saw it in all its glory. I value the trails because they provide so much in the way of untamed beauty and (for me at least) therapy (!), yet cost nothing to use. They do however cost quite a bit to maintain! And it’s so easy to forget that. So, to have been able to contribute to the South West Coast Path Association’s fundraising campaign has been a privilege and a way of giving something back to the path that has given so much to me.” - Becca
Jennie walked 400 miles to celebrate a big birthday:
“To celebrate becoming 60, I set myself a huge challenge—to walk 400 miles in 34 days, from Port Issac, back to my home on Portland. I set off in July and it was every bit as challenging as I thought—but most surprising was the deep inner peace I found whilst walking every day for almost 5 weeks. The terrain of the Path changes with each passing mile, but the stunning sea-scapes, beautiful flowers and abundance of wildlife are constant. I love that the South West Coast Path Association looks after, protects, sign-posts and keeps the Path open, so we get to enjoy it—whether it's for a gentle stroll or a walking marathon. I am honoured to have fundraised for the Association this year.” - Jennie
Jason ran the entire Path:
“I’ve been lucky enough to have travelled extensively to events and challenges all around the world. Quite honestly, nothing competes with the variety of terrain, muscle pumping inclines and the raw expansive beauty of every inch of the South West Coast Path. And it’s all right here, on my doorstep. It was a privilege to be able to run the entire Trail whilst fundraising to help ensure it is there for my kids, and their kids, to enjoy in the future. I would encourage anyone who is thinking about doing the 630 miles, to go for it – you won’t regret it!” - Jason
Pennywell Farm employees did a trail-running challenge:
"We chose to support the Trail in recognition of its importance to our economy, health and environment. Not only does it attract visitors and give them a wonderful experience, but we all have a favourite section. Our team had a ball on our run, with every kind of weather in one day, breath-taking views and stopping to chat to other Trail users – from couples walking, to bird watchers and surfers.” - Stephanie
Luke & the Plymouth Coastal Runners fundraise each October:
"A few years ago, I discovered the delights of running on the South West Coast Path and wanted to get more people involved, which is why myself and a few friends founded the Plymouth Coastal Runners. Since then, I’ve learnt a lot about how much it costs to maintain or replace a set of steps, replace sections of fence or keep the foliage and brambles under control so walkers and runners can use the Path. For the last three years we have taken part in the South West Coast Path Challenge fundraiser as a group, making a per-head contribution to take part in a virtual time trial. It’s so nice to know that we're doing our bit to support the charity that works so hard to allow us to enjoy our passion for coastal running!” - Luke
Laura and her family became the ‘Beer Coasters’ for a day:
"I haven't done lots of fundraising in the past and taking part in the SWCP Challenge gave me the chance to raise money for two charities that do great work and spend quality time out on the trail with my lovely family and friends too. My Dad, sister, husband and children all took part. Raising money as a big group meant we could all contribute towards a bigger target, so our fundraising had more clout for both the South West Coast Path Association and Parkinsons UK. Looking forward to our next Challenge." - Laura
The South Devon Ramblers do an annual fundraising walk:
"Our contoured coastline draws us regularly towards the sea to revel in what are quite often breath-taking spectacles. The South West Coast Path combines awesome scenery with an abundance of wildlife, flora and fauna. It is a phenomenal asset to our region. For these reasons the South Devon Ramblers will continue to support the Challenge to raise funds for the dedicated team at Association and we would encourage other walkers and ramblers to likewise participate.” - Bernard
