Families, friends and colleagues across Bath are being encouraged to get outside and clock up 100km this summer in support of two local youth charities.
The Big BaNES 100km challenge officially launched during Mental Health Awareness Week with a community walk through Bath on 13 May, kicking off a summer-long initiative supporting Mentoring Plus and Off the Record Bath & North East Somerset.
Designed to be flexible and accessible, participants can complete the challenge individually or as part of a team before the end of September. Walking, cycling, scooting and swimming all count towards the 100km target, making it an easy challenge for families to fit around everyday life.
The award-winning challenge is organised alongside local groups including The Bath 5k Map, Walk Bath and Bathscape, all of which promote the benefits of getting active outdoors and exploring the local area.
Annie Legge, founder of The Bath 5k Map, said, “We would love more people to take the chance to walk and talk, explore new places and connect with friends, family or colleagues this summer. Getting outside among nature is so beneficial to our health and wellbeing. There will be plenty of support from local walking groups, community events and guided walks that you can join to help you find your feet!”
Organisers say the challenge can be broken down into manageable weekly goals of around 5km, helping people of all ages and abilities take part while improving their physical and mental wellbeing.
There is no minimum fundraising target and every donation raised will help support young people across Bath and North East Somerset facing difficult challenges.
Ruth Keily, chief executive of Mentoring Plus, said, “It’s been great to see more people of all ages get involved in the Big BaNES 100k each year. We’ll be cheering this year’s challengers on every step of the way! Every pound raised, through sponsorship or donations, protects lifeline programmes and helps children and young people facing tough challenges feel safe, heard, and hopeful for their future.”
James Brown, development manager at Off the Record Bath & North East Somerset, added, “Feeling connected and part of a community is enormously important for our mental health and can be grounding in turbulent times. This challenge creates an opportunity for people to be part of a positive local movement that champions wellbeing, while raising awareness and funds for much-needed counselling, listening support and advocacy for young people in and around Bath.”
This year, organisers are also encouraging local businesses to join the challenge, with colleagues able to work together to complete the 100km target during lunch breaks and evening walks over the summer months.
Families can find out more and sign up for the challenge at bath100kmchallenge.org.
