Today, we’re sharing the efforts of three of our Chemring colleagues who are all prioritising their physical and mental wellbeing. Rob from Chemring Group’s Head Office has taken on two gruelling physical challenges. Chris and Tom, who work in our Roke business, have set themselves the challenge of reaching 1000km during June through running, walking or cycling. Here, they share their experiences so far.
Says Tom: “I never considered myself a cyclist and only bought my bike last year as a stopgap after my car was written off. However, I soon started taking it on longer rides, and cycling became a hobby instead of getting from A to B. A year later, I ride into work at least twice a week, spend way more time outside, and I’m fitter than I’ve ever been. I still haven’t felt the need to replace my car!”
Adds Chris, “I have recently suffered from some stress issues and made the decision to go large on the OS map. I now regularly go out to discover and enjoy the Salisbury countryside. I live a short walk from Figsbury Rings, an old iron age hillfort, so that was a great place to begin. I now have several walking routes that bizarrely always seem to end at my local pub (in moderation, of course!).”
Says Rob, “In recognition of the importance of prioritising your mental and physical health, I’ve signed up for two Ultra marathons. The first is 50km long, and the second is 100km. I do this not because I want to but to see what’s possible (stubbornness runs in my family!). I believe mental health challenges are one of the single biggest issues today, and I’ve seen first-hand the impact of poor mental health on several of my friends and family members over the past year.”
Rob completed his first challenge on Saturday, 15 June. Called the Race to the King, he completed a 50km loop in the South Downs from Goodwood Racecourse to Arundel Castle and back. His second event, Race to the Stones, is a 100km event taking place on Saturday, 13 July.