A Festive Challenge to support a Lapland Charity

“Ho Ho Go!” is the rallying cry from the Northern Lights Children’s Charity. The shout out inviting people to participate in a unique fundraising challenge spanning December and January. 

“We thought it would be the ideal tonic for the winter months and 100% of the profits from Ho Ho Go! will go to the charity,” said Karen Jones MBE, Chair of the charity.  

 “What sets this fundraiser apart is that rather than run a half or full marathon etc people can set any goal they like.  They can complete the challenge in their own way, using any method of activity, over any duration or distance.  For example, they can run a 5k dressed as a Christmas pudding or cycle the marathon distance of 26.2 miles during the 12 days of Christmas.”

Funds raised each year enable the Northern Lights Children’s charity to take 20 children with life limiting illnesses to swap their hospital visits for sleigh rides, deep crisp snow, reindeers and snow mobiles. Unfortunately, due to the impact of the pandemic, Northern Lights have had to cancel their plans this year and missed out on vital fundraising. Making every pound raised from Ho Ho Go! even more crucial.

“Our volunteers transport them far away from appointments, treatment regimens and worries to the winter wonderland of Lapland and a very magical visit to meet Father Christmas,” Karen explained.  

All entrants to the challenge, which is facilitated by Active Leisure Events Ltd, the organisers of the popular Chester 10K, Half Marathon and Marathon will receive a special edition, bespoke Christmas medal and a randomly selected Santa or Elf hat to wear while taking part in the challenge. Entrants will also have the opportunity to add a donation to the charity should they wish.

Chris Hulse from ALE: “Good fun for a good cause and a welcome distraction from the pandemic.  After our 2020 Half Marathon and Marathon were sadly cancelled, which Northern Lights Children’s Charity are our race charity for, we are delighted to be able find this way to continue supporting our official charity.”

“We are looking forward to people tagging us on social media and sending us pictures of themselves wearing their hats while out running, swimming, walking, cycling or any of the creative ways they can think of to keep active.  

Information about the Challenge and how to enter can be found at their website HERE.  For more information on the Northern Lights Charity click HERE.