Olli to take part in the South Coast Ultra Challenge for Renew Counselling and Training
Our dedicated fundraiser Olli will be running for us at the South Coast Ultra Challenge this September! Read on to find out more about Olli and why he’s running for Renew.
Olli is a return fundraiser for Renew, having completed challenges for the charity in the past including the London Marathon. For his latest fundraising activity, Olli will be taking part in the South Coast Ultra Challenge.
The South Downs National Park is the backdrop for 2000 adventurers to take on this epic endurance event. An Eastbourne start, up Beachy Head, the magnificent Seven Sisters, and along the South Downs Way, with stunning views over the sea, to a Brighton half-way. Devil’s Dyke, and a few ups and downs lie ahead before historic Arundel comes into view after an amazing 100 km journey.
You can show your support by clicking the donation link below.
Hi Olli! Thank you so much for undertaking this challenge for Renew. Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
I’m Olli, a Personal Trainer in my early thirties. I enjoy training and taking part in triathlons, going to gigs when I have the time (and money!), and making the most of family time with my newborn son, Maddox, and partner, Georgie.
Can you tell us about your fitness journey?
Running and fitness has always been part of my life. My parents enjoy fitness and have taken part in a number of half marathons and local run events, where my brother and I were always encouraged to take part.
I was never a good runner but started to take it more seriously in 2022, and have found that setting goals helps keep up motivation, even at the toughest of times.
Why is running for more mental health support important to you?
It is important to me to support charities like Renew because mental health services are still largely underfunded, and if I can help spread the word about their work and that there are alternative options for those that are unable to afford private counselling or are stuck on long NHS waiting lists, then hopefully more people will get the support they need.
What do you think of Renew’s work in Essex and East London?
Renew continue to do a great job at supporting those that otherwise wouldn’t be able to access counselling services. The work they do training counsellors helps ensure they can continue to deliver an excellent service, creating professional, certified counsellors for an ever-growing community need.
How have you found training for the Ultra Challenge?
With such a long distance and large training volume, I have been doing strength work to prevent injury. I thankfully can do this at work in between clients.
I do enjoy running as it provides me time to think and reflect. I have found that early morning sunrise runs help set me up for the day, and I enjoy the solitude, being in nature without the noises of the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life.
What’s the first thing you’ll do when you’ve finished?
The first thing I’ll do is take a dip in the sea, so I don’t feel the pain in my body, whilst planning the next fun challenge!
