Brothers Rory (11) and Elliott (8) from have raised £3,000 for Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW), a charity close to their hearts. Their family received vital support from CHSW’s local hospice, Charlton Farm for their baby cousin who sadly died at 5 weeks old.
Their fundraising journey began in May this year, when they laced up their trainers for the AJ Bell Junior Bristol Run. Rory powered through a 2.5km sprint while Elliott raced ahead in the 1.5km dash, both bursting with energy as they kicked off the first of many fundraising challenges.
Despite Rory not feeling well, just a few weeks later in June they took part in the HU5k, a 5km community run through the village of Hawkesbury Upton.
Their mum Melissa Cooke, shared proudly: “I genuinely thought this one would slow Elliott down, but turns out I was wrong! Rory got through it and it is safe to say, they both deserved their cake at the end!”
By the end of June, the brothers had organised a school penalty shoot-out, rallying their classmates to take part in a fun and competitive challenge.
In July, Rory pushed himself even further, cycling 35 miles from CHSW’s charity shop in Yate to their charity shop in Bath and back again in the summer heat.
Not stopping there, the brothers tackled mud and obstacles and at the Spartan Kids Tough Mudder together in August.
Behind the scenes, Rory has been working hard to complete October’s Ultra Marathon Challenge, a total of 31 miles. With help from his Scouts group, he conquered 14 miles in 1 evening and has kept building up the distance ever since. And on 25 October Elliott smashed his Park Run PB completing 5k in just 26 mins and 46 seconds to support his own 26-mile target for the month.
Their final challenge took place on Monday 27 October, when they completed their ‘Final Mile’ by running the length of the drive into Charlton Farm. They were cheered on by family, friends, and members of the hospice care team before celebrating with milkshakes and cake at the hospice.
Anna Ross, Head of Fundraising at Charlton Farm, said: “We’re always so inspired when young people support Children’s Hospice South West, and Rory and Elliott have truly impressed us with their incredible fundraising efforts. We’re immensely proud of all they’ve achieved. It’s especially meaningful that their final challenge ends at Charlton Farm, where we can welcome them and celebrate their achievements in a special way.”
Even after months of hard work, the boys are already looking to sign up for the charity’s festive fun run; Santas on the Run in December.
To support Rory and Elliott’s fundraising, click here!