E.G.G Shanghai 50 km Walkathon: fundraising target exceeded!
On Saturday 15th May, six brave staff members from Dulwich International High School Suzhou traveled to Shanghai Pudong district in order to participate in the annual 50 km walkathon organized by the Shanghai United Foundation. The start line, close to the Science and Technology Museum, was full of frenzied excitement and trepidation as over 1000 people began walking the route in the early morning.
The route itself contained some scenic areas, and a particular highlight was the Huangpu riverside, which had recently been renovated and provided a delightful 10 km section. Otherwise, the course mainly weaved in and out of Shanghai suburbs east of the river.
The team from Dulwich International High School Suzhou (all wearing ‘Greenwise’ T-shirts) was fortunate to have the company of two other teams representing the central office for the group. It was a rare time in busy working schedules where we could experience a meaningful activity of walking and enjoying our local environment while challenging ourselves, both mentally and physically. We required the support of friends and colleagues to push our bodies to the limits. It certainly didn’t do the walkers any favors when temperatures soared to well over 30 degrees Celsius, but with a real feel over 40 degrees!
Mike and Martin are no strangers to endurance fitness competitions, but both said it was an extreme challenge and one that was difficult to prepare for, as they finished during the evening. The pounding of feet on the tarmac for over 50 km takes no prisoners, but Michelle and Serena also soon finished and swiftly removed their shoes so their feet could enjoy the cool evening air and they could see the extent of the blistering! Huge credit must also go to Angela and Monica, who pushed their bodies to the limits and completed substantial distances during the event. It was beautiful to see such courage and commitment from the staff. The conversations after the walk, bemoaning the unfavorable temperature and sore muscles, have extended well beyond the day!
The most moving part of the event, and the thing that makes all the hardship worthwhile, is the funds raised to support the Shanghai United Foundation and their worthy aspirations to provide for children in need of guardianship. The Dulwich International High School Suzhou team had a target of a gigantic 30000 RMB, which they exceeded! Huge thanks must go to all the generous sponsors: staff, students, parents, and other community members who are helping to make a positive difference to our local community.
We are all already looking forward to next year’s event!
If you would like to donate to this very worthy cause, please scan the link today and help the team to exceed their target even further:
