Olivia's Challenge

Posted at 2:57 pm on 9th March, 2021

Students at Flixton Girls are encouraged how to show their social, moral and emotional skills both in and outside of the school community and this has been no different during lockdown.

Olivia Turner, from year 8 has really taken this to the next level and during lockdown has set herself a BIG physical challenge running and cycling the distance of Lands’ End to John O'Groats. Olivia would normally have taken part in her football training and matches, but with lockdown restrictions the training had to cease. The challenge has been made more personal for Olivia by deciding to raise funds for Bone Cancer Research Trust. This is close to Olivia’s heart due to a friend, of the same age, who also plays football is currently battling with cancer.

Her selfless act to help others, purely off her own back and under her own steam, with the support of family and friends is a fantastic achievement. The challenge sees Olivia covering 874 miles over a 9-week period, through to Easter weekend. She needed to complete at least 90 miles a week, which is no mean feat. However, she is currently ahead of schedule having completed over 540 miles in just 5 weeks.

Olivia said, ‘The hardest part has been going out running in the rain and snow and fitting it around my home football sessions and online learning. The most rewarding part has been seeing how many people have supported me, followed my journey and donated. My initial target was £100 but that was met within an hour and raised to £1000 but currently the total stands at over £1800 and the challenge isn’t over yet!

This challenge has been hard but enjoyable and has given me something to focus on; along with knowing the money raised will benefit others and help the charity that is massively underfunded.’

You can support Olivia’s efforts by donating through her Just Giving page.

Mrs Larkin, Head of Safeguarding and Welfare commented, ‘WOW fantastic work Olivia!’

Mrs Trussell said, ‘An exceptional effort Olivia, showing determination, dedication towards the challenge whilst also completing on-line learning. This is a brilliant achievement, keep up the great work and fabulous fundraising!’

Read the charity response HERE

We are very proud to announce that Olivia has completed her virtual bike ride challenge ahead of the expected completion date, in fact by a full week. Congratulations Olivia. Her current total raised has now exceeded the £2k and is pushing towards £2.5k, which is over 248% above her planned target. Thanks to everyone who have supported her altruistic fundraising efforts!