MR. Barbers and a few comrades tackled a non-stop 100km walking challenge in less than 24 hours for Alzheimer’s Research UK, following months of training.
The team of seven walked a gruelling 100km loop route through the heart of the Cotswolds. They started the momentous challenge at 7am on Saturday morning, and walked continuously for 23.5 hours, in the heat, humidity and complete darkness, before reaching the finishing line at 6:30am on Sunday morning.
The courageous barbers embarked on the ultimate team endurance event to raise awareness and funds for life-changing Alzheimers research. Alzheimer’s Research UK is the UK’s leading dementia research charity, dedicated to causes, diagnosis, prevention, treatment and cure. Backed by passionate scientists and supporters, they’re challenging the way people think about dementia, uniting the big thinkers in the field and funding the innovative science that will deliver a cure.
Although it took every ounce of energy and motivation, the team conquered the biggest challenge of their lives and inspired hundreds of people to take on a challenge of their own. “Bathing in the euphoria of pain and the achievement, knowing that growth comes from challenging yourself, I feel myself and this team have levelled up to new heights,” shared Mick Phipps. “Events like this are amazing opportunities to push your limits and realise that you’ve got more than what you really thought you had in the locker.”
Raising Thousands
Since crossing the finishing line, the team has raised an incredible £3,383 for Alzheimer’s Research UK, with hope that more donations will be made over the next few weeks. Mark Lovell, shop owner at MR. Barbers, said: “A few months ago I asked my work friends who would be up for a challenge. I wasn’t expecting much of a response to a 100km, but we put a great group together. We weren’t expecting the type of elevation and unforgiving terrain that we encountered, but it created a journey we will never forget. The more you explore the mind and share experiences, the greater the bond you will create with friends and yourself.
“It doesn’t have to be 100km, but please put something in the diary. Please start living, please start exploring – you can achieve so much more than you think.”
Donations can be made directly to the MR. Barbers fundraising page, found here.
Participants included: Karl Foster, Mark Lovell, Mick Phipps, Jamie Cooper-Hawkins, Jacob Gallally and Callum Slater.
Matt Elliott first became aware of the lack of hair services in care homes when his Grandad was diagnosed with dementia in 2018 – which is why he decided to make a change. Find out more about the work he’s been doing here.