The sun shone, the rain lashed and the lightning was thankfully short-lived as around 100 walkers took on all four seasons in one Breast Walk Ever Oxfordshire 2023!
All was very quiet shortly after 7 am with the clearing of bins (from the night before) and the building of finish gantries as the Wallingford waterfront started to take shape. Out on the course, signs were out, refreshment stops readied and marshals briefed.
Under bright blue skies, the early walkers arrived to unseasonably high morning temperatures, eager to take on the challenge ahead. Taking part in either a full marathon, half marathon or 10K, fundraisers took to the Thames riverside to walk for breast cancer research.
By the time all the walkers were out on the course shortly after midday, the near-perfect conditions gave way to several heavy downpours. The rain however did little to dampen spirits, however, as participants, all with their unique reasons to walk, appeared to appreciate the cooling conditions.
All were welcomed back to the finish with a well-earned medal, a glass of fizz and a massage for those who wanted it. There were even special medals for all the dogs too!
Over £10,000 has been raised thus far from the event with funds going towards ground-breaking research into secondary spread breast cancer, the main cause of breast cancer-related deaths. About four-fifths of the walkers had never participated in a walk for Against Breast Cancer before.
Big thanks to Michelle Hammond and Geri McColgan for providing complimentary massages for the weary walkers, and to David Chalk for as ever supplying the fantastic event photography. Photos from the day can be found on our Breast Walk Ever Facebook page. Thank you also to the Recycling Clothes Company who sponsored the event, ensuring that significant running costs were covered.
The feedback received has been incredibly positive with many walkers enjoying the hospitality both out on the course and at the finish:
“Very well organised event. We especially enjoyed the lovely hospitality at the end of the walk.”
Jan
“Great walk on Sunday, easy to follow through beautiful countryside and river views. Plus lovely volunteers offered us refreshments in the cutest village hall ever and a great welcome back. It was a pleasure to fundraise for such a great cause.”
Ann
“The event is so well organised and there were three stops where we could fill up on scrumptious cakes. Everyone along the way were so kind and friendly and I would definitely recommend anyone who walks take part in this event next year.”
Brenda
The Breast Walk Ever will return in 2024, with the Hampshire walk confirmed for Sunday 12th May. Sign up is open now! Please keep an eye on the Breast Walk Ever website and our social channels for further details on next year’s Oxfordshire walk.
With thanks to: Geri McColgan (@geraldinemccolganwellbeing) and Michelle Hammond.