A GYM in Melksham is taking part in a ‘Fan Dance’ SAS military challenge to raise money for ‘out box bullying’, a programme that seeks to give children more confidence.
Exercise High Walk, more commonly known as the ‘Fan Dance’, is part of the fitness and navigation phase of the selection process for the UK’s special forces, as well as 16 Air Assault Brigade’s Pathfinder Platoon.
Ex SAS Jim Walker will be putting nine members of The Contender Gym in Melksham through their paces as they attempt ‘Fan Dance’ on Saturday 16th February, climbing Pen Y Fan carrying 35lbs, plus water, over 15 miles within a four-hour time limit.
They will be using the challenge to raise money to buy boxing gloves, handwraps and other boxing kit for children to use during ‘out box bullying’ sessions.
‘Out box bullying’ is a programme set up by the gym to help individuals struggling with confidence, anxiety, along with any other issues that boxing can add benefit to.
Taking part are: Rocco Richards, Mark Kent, Sean Jones, Chris Ransome, Stu Greener, Tobias Stevenson, Aude Valnet, Paul Cummings and Megan Redstall.
Mark Kent, head coach at The Contender Gym said, “The route is an absolute lung buster that throws everything at you and can also be a real battle against the elements.
“There are steady slopes that allow a solid jogging pace, shocking inclines that have you almost on your hands and knees, loose stone tracks that require cautious foot placements, stream crossings and a forested off-road vehicle track that allows for some rapid going.
“Even SAS and SBS candidates at the height of their physical abilities regard beating the clock in this military time trial as a serious challenge, and they all know its capacity to hurt. Aside from the race aspect of this life-changing event, just getting to the end is an accomplishment and something to be immensely proud of.
“Boxing brings people together whether it’s just training or competing. The gym is a community.”
Rocco Richards said, “I’m really pumped to be involved in this challenge knowing it’s supporting such a great cause that’s based here in Melksham. We’ve all studied the route and put in the gym time, but I don’t think any amount of studying will prepare us for this climb.
“I would just like to give a massive thanks to Jim Walker for giving all of us this opportunity and who has the toughest job of guiding/carrying us through to the finish line, also a man of few words Mark Kent.
“Rocky soundtrack at the ready.”
The team has raised £1,065, with a target £1,200 at the time of writing.
If you would like to support the team, you can donate via their Facebook donation page: www.facebook. com/donate/229182874691225/.
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