For the second year running, Springboard will be taking its trek virtual. The organisation aims to raise £100,000, which would beat last year’s total of £90,000.
The initiative is supported by headline sponsors Nestle Professional and CH&Co. Other sponsors include Bidfood, Kraft Heinz, Kellogg’s, Unilever, Vestey and AAK.
“Gather your work mates, form a team, and join us throughout October as we cycle, walk, run, or push the 6,462 miles from the UK to Qatar and back again,” says Springboard marketing and events partner Amy-Jane Cahalane.
“Last year’s event not only raised vital funds for the industry, but it was great fun too. Thanks to our sponsors, everyone who takes part will receive a goody bag and a t-shirt, and there will be spot prizes given out along the way. There’s something for everyone.”
Previous racer, Catherine Hinchcliff, head of corporate marketing, marketing and insight, at Bidfood, adds: “I was a bit hesitant to participate, but was so pleased to have joined up. It was such fun and really motivated me to get back on my exercise bike and really go for it!”
“The team spirit and competitiveness between our teams pushed me to do way more exercise than I’d done in years, and I really surprised myself. Lovely to be raising money for such a great cause too.”
The race will use the My Virtual Mission website and app to track the miles and move each team along in the race.
Teams can be a maximum of 30 people, each making a pledge to raise £100 for the charity.
Businesses can make up a full team, or individuals can join a team to get involved.
Registration is £15 per person and teams must pledge to raise £3,000 for Springboard.
Participants can register here.
Springboard supports unemployed people, especially those who experience barriers to employment and young people.
"Springboard helps to reduce unemployment and poverty across the UK and improves the prospects of young people by equipping them with personal, professional and employability skills, through first class education programmes, mentoring, advice and guidance, award-winning training, dedicated aftercare, access to work experience placements and, ultimately, sustainable employment," a spokesperson says.