On Saturday 30 April, Robert Kaczmarczyk, 51, from Worthing, and five friends - Nick Holland, Martin Gaspard, Paul Macey, Chris Quigley, and Alex Downey - will be taking on 50 miles of the South Downs Way to raise funds for Chestnut Tree House children's hospice.
Giving themselves just 24 hours to complete the mammoth challenge, the group will be setting off from the Brooksteed Alehouse in Worthing at 4pm, where they will trek up to Cissbury Ring and follow the South Downs Way until they finish their trek in Eastbourne.
"The most difficult part of the challenge will definitely be the sleep deprivation and walking in the dark," says Robert. "We've been doing most of our training treks in the dark to prepare ourselves, so it will make a change to walk in the daylight!"
In their training, the group are averaging three miles per hour and over all are hoping to complete their trek in around 18 hours. "The longest training walks we do are 20 miles, so I'm sure our pace will be tested the closer we get to the 50-mile mark."
The challenge idea came from Robert, Paul and Nick chatting after Robert undertook a marathon walk event last year and the desire to do something together but push the goal posts further. "I've always wanted to fundraise for Chestnut Tree House, and I thought taking on this challenge would be a perfect opportunity," says Robert. "I have two kids, and Chestnut Tree House really resonates with me. What the hospice does to support local families is just amazing, I can't think of a more worthy cause."
To support Robert and his mates on their 24-hour trek, please visit www.gofundme.com/50-miles-of-the-south-downs-way
