This year’s much-anticipated Loop Challenge promised to be a spectacular afternoon, with the sun shining and not a cloud in sight… until, quite literally out of nowhere, a dramatic thunderstorm forced the race to be called off just half an hour in.
Despite the early finish, 369 runners — including both staff and pupils — took part in the event, raising an incredible £19,041.41 for Oasis Charity through JustGiving donations and race entry fees. Oasis supports vulnerable children and families in our local community, and we are proud to contribute to their work.
Participants had the option to complete between one and five loops of our beautiful campus, with five loops equating to a half marathon — a challenge that 139 runners signed up for.
Pupils gathered at checkpoints, cheering on their peers as they tackled the course — even as the weather quickly turned too dangerous to continue.
This year, for the first time, professional timing chips were introduced for all runners. Everyone who took part also received a medal in recognition of their efforts.
Josh (Year 12), who helped organise the event, looks back on a memorable Loop Challenge:
After the Loop Challenge started last year, as it was such a success and showed potential to be even bigger, we thought that it would only be right if it happened again this year.
This year promised to be even bigger and better, with the atmosphere and buzz in the hours, days, and weeks prior being electric. Standing on the start line, after all the hours of anticipation and build-up, we were finally ready to go. It was great to see so many — not only volunteers, but also supporters — to encourage everyone around and create real enthusiasm and added excitement to the event.
Whilst the race was unfortunately cut short due to the rain, coming round to finish — whilst only doing 2 laps instead of the 5 that many people opted to do — in the rain is something that we will look back on fondly as one of our favourite experiences while at Charterhouse.
Despite the early finished, the event was a resounding success in its mission, raising a significant amount of money for the brilliant Oasis charity. The keenness and generosity of everyone was clear to see, and we hope that this Challenge can continue for many years to come.
We would also like to thank all the volunteers, and especially Mrs Edwards, for helping to organise and create what was a successful event.
However, this is not the end of the story — plans are underway to reschedule the challenge later this term. In the meantime, if you would like to donate, please do so via the link below:
