A team of gymnastic coaches from Baskervilles Gym are set to tackle the 20-mile Circuit of Bath Walk later this month to support vulnerable adults across the region.
The Baskervilles team, ready for the Circuit of Bath Walk | Photo courtesy of Julian House
Launched nearly forty years ago by two former teachers, family-run Baskervilles has encouraged more than 25,000 youngsters to get involved in gymnastics.
They are now encouraging their own team to sign up for the walk, an annual event organised by Julian House, a charity which supports people experiencing homelessness.
As well as a desire to make a difference in the community, organiser Michelle Charlwood says that the team wanted a suitable event to celebrate her milestone birthday.
She said: “It’s my fiftieth year this year, and we wanted to find a team challenge to mark it. Obviously, all working in the gym we’re very keen on our fitness. So, after a bit of research, we decided the Circuit of Bath Walk would be perfect.
“It’s local and we felt Julian House was a really good charity to support.”. Their team is called Team Shamwari, as Michelle is from Zimbabwe, where “Shamwari means friends… and a team challenge is always easier with friends.”
With all their experience, the team also know the value of good training and preparation.
Team member Liz said: “I found a plan to help me work towards a 20-mile walk and I’m following that to the letter. Currently I’m on my week 4 training and have already completed 10 miles, so I’m raring to go the full distance!”
Liz is the only member of the team to have completed the walk before.
She added: “I thoroughly enjoyed it and felt a great sense of achievement. There’s still a lot of homelessness in Bath and to be able to help means a lot.”
The Circuit of Bath Walk will take place on Sunday 25th September. To sign up and book your place, visit www.circuitofbathwalk.co.uk.
