Students run through the night for Challenge 12
Students from Eltham College returned to Sheffield earlier this month to take on Challenge 12 – a 12-hour overnight running relay designed especially for young people – with three teams stepping onto the indoor track and running through the night in an impressive display of teamwork and resilience.
About the challenge
Held at the English Institute of Sport in Sheffield on Saturday 7 February, the challenge coincided with the England Athletics National Indoor Age Group Athletics Championships. As the final competition of the day came to a close on Saturday evening, Challenge 12 was only just beginning, with Eltham College students preparing to keep the track moving until morning.
For the second year running, the school took part in the event, this time with three separate teams made up of a total of 17 students aged 16-18. Each team had to keep one runner on the track at all times for the full 12-hour duration, starting at 7pm and finishing at 7am. Throughout the night, students rotated in relay format, supporting one another and ensuring their team’s presence on the track never stopped.
Before the start
The students were joined by Paralympian and Personal Best Foundation Trustee Ali Smith for a Q&A and motivational session. A specialist in the 100m, 400m and 4x100m universal relay, Smith is no stranger to the track and found herself in familiar surroundings but admitted that this particular challenge would test even seasoned athletes.
Ali Smith said of the challenge:
''I think it is amazing what they are doing, especially for the Charity. I think it is also the incredible the dedication they are putting in to it because I definitely couldn't stay up this long, and I cant run for that long, so it is amazing what they are doing''
Off they go!
At 7pm the relay began, with the three teams settling into the rhythm of the night. Students cheered each other on from the side lines between legs, with friendly competition and team pride helping to carry them through the early hours. By the time the 12 hours were complete, the students had collectively covered 1,728 laps an extraordinary 345.6km.
Eltham College’s return for a second year saw the challenge grow in scale, with three teams taking part and setting an example for other schools interested in future events.
James Willatt, Deputy Head Co Curriculum, Eltham College;
"Challenge12 is a brilliant initiative that combines physical challenge, leadership development, and social impact. It’s a perfect example of how co-curricular activities can extend learning beyond the classroom, all while supporting a great cause"
Amy Weaver-Tyler - Personal Best Foundation Manager said:
''We were delighted to welcome Eltham College back for a second year to take on a 12-hour overnight relay under the new Challenge12 branding, and to see the initiative grow in both scale and ambition. The students were absolutely brilliant, running through the night with incredible determination, teamwork and spirit, all to raise money to help change the lives of under-served communities, through the power of athletics.”
As morning arrived and the relay came to an end, the students were welcomed back onto the infield for a medal presentation led by Chris Jones, England Athletics CEO and Personal Best Foundation Trustee, recognising their efforts and achievement in completing the overnight challenge.
Fundraising Total
Together, the teams have raised £4,665 so far in support of Personal Best Foundation an impressive total that reflects not only the physical effort involved, but the students’ commitment to making a positive impact through sport.
Schools interested in taking part in Challenge12 in future years can find out more by contacting info@personalbestfoundation.org.uk
You can DONATE HERE