A teacher at Three Ways School in Bath has completed a 60 miles ultra marathon to raise funds for new playground equipment for the school.
Lizzie Passington and her partner, Dan, raised over £500 by completing the 60 miles course over two days in the New Forest. They ran through bright sunshine, sideways rain, along sandy pathways and slept on a hall floor.
Lizzie, who plays for Bath Ladies Rugby, teaches at Three Ways School, managing a class of children with a variety of learning difficulties, as well as the school dog.
“The experience was absolutely amazing, and knowing I had the support of my sponsors me kept me going,” recalls Lizzie. “It was an unbeatable feeling and a huge challenge but I loved it and am definitely going to do another ultra-marathon.’
The ultra-marathon took place over two days, with 15 hours running, walking up hills and sleeping on route. Lizzie and Dan were inspired to take part after looking for a new challenge and chatting to a friend who is a regular ultra-marathon runner.
The money raised will be used to provide new playground equipment at Three Ways. The school is planning to raise £30,000 to build a trim trail and install play equipment in the school grounds. Unstructured playtimes are often difficult for children with additional needs. Interacting with other children and being able to play is easier when inspired by equipment or fully inclusive games. The school wants to provide more opportunities for all the pupils to play and exercise, especially those with limited mobility.
Headteacher Jo Stoaling said, “We are extremely lucky to have such a wonderful supportive staff team who go above and beyond their classroom roles on a daily basis to support all of our pupils. Miss Passingham is a real asset to Three Ways School and her passion for sports and fitness has not only raised money for the school through sponsorship, but also impacts on the enthusiasm around exercise and fitness for the pupils in her class. The Three Ways team and community would like to say a huge thank you to Miss Passingham. An ultra marathon is an amazing achievement”
If you or anyone you know would be interested in supporting the Three Ways playground appeal, please contact Lucy Beattie at email hidden; JavaScript is required or on 01225 838070.