Keeping Busy During Lockdown - 360KM Completed in 24hrs and Nearly £20k Raised for Cancer Research UK
Lower Sixth pupil, Toby G, demonstrated strength, stamina and a positive mindset as he completed an endurance challenge in aid of Cancer Research UK.
Starting at 11 am on Saturday, 27 June in Toby’s front garden, he set off with family friend Charlie B rowing 2km, running 3km and cycling 10km on the start of every hour for 24 hours; the running alone was the equivalent of nearly two marathons!
Toby and Charlie were determined to maintain their fitness levels during lockdown, especially as rugby was on hold for a while. The pair decided to follow in the footsteps of the Southern Knights’ Super6 Captain who had taken on a similar challenge for 12 hours – Toby suggested they take it one step further and go for a full 24-hour challenge.
Toby trained incredibly hard and as lockdown restrictions eased the pair could train together in the garden. Toby’s commitment to the challenge was a testament to the ‘SolidCastle’ sporting values that the boys adhere to both on and off the sporting field at Merchiston.
Toby was clear from the outset at what he wanted to achieve: “I wanted to make the challenge something we really had to focus on and work hard towards because we are raising money for a great charity.
Head of Rugby at Merchiston, Roddy Deans, said: “I am really impressed by Toby and the challenge he is undertaking. It is good that he has something to focus on and keep him focused while rugby is on hold.
“He is a hardworking rugby player who gives his all to training sessions and matches. In the year just ending he got a taste of first XV rugby, and he will be looking to push on and be a key part of that squad next year.”
After this gruelling challenge, Toby is now in recovery mode but would love to keep increasing the donations for the charity. The fundraising total with the help of 566 supporters is currently sitting at a staggering £19,440.02.