Canoe the Wye & Symonds Yat Challenge Raises Nearly £5,200 for The ELY Memorial Fund

On 7 June 2026, Your Adventure Challenge had the pleasure of guiding a team of dedicated ELY Memorial Fund supporters on the River Wye and Symonds Yat Challenge, combining canoeing, teamwork and reflection to raise an incredible nearly £5,200 including Gift Aid for The ELY Memorial Fund.

The Canoe the Wye & Symonds Yat Rock Challenge brought together friends, colleagues and supporters of ELY for a memorable fundraising day with an incredibly important purpose. The ELY Memorial Fund provides essential support to families who have tragically lost a son or daughter aged between 17 and 25 in a road traffic collision.

The challenge began on the beautiful River Wye, where the team took to their canoes and navigated the river together. Alongside the canoeing challenge, participants also took on the climb and challenge of Symonds Yat Rock, putting their physical strength and teamwork to the test.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Herefordshire and Wye Valley landscape, the day was not only a physical challenge but also an opportunity to come together, reflect and raise awareness for an important cause.

Together, their efforts, alongside the generosity of friends, colleagues, local businesses and the wider ELY community, have helped raise nearly £5,200 so far.

Supporting Bereaved Families

Every pound raised through the challenge will help The ELY Memorial Fund continue its vital work supporting families following the devastating loss of a young person.

Funds can help provide practical and financial support, including contributions towards funeral costs at a time when families are facing unimaginable circumstances.

We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part, donated, supported the challenge or helped spread the word. Their determination and generosity have made a meaningful difference and will help ensure ELY can continue to support families when they need it most.

Watch the Highlights

Big thank you to Adam Hanslow-Smith from dandelion video productions who kindly created a video for ELY to capture the spirit of the day.

The film provides a wonderful reminder of what the team achieved and the people behind the fundraising, bringing together the scenery, the challenge and the moments shared along the way.

Fancy Taking On Your Own Adventure?

At Your Adventure Challenge, we believe outdoor adventures are for everyone.

Whether you're raising money for charity, organising a corporate team building event or simply looking to challenge yourself, we create professionally organised adventures that are safe, rewarding and unforgettable.

From mountain hikes and national challenge events to bespoke fundraising adventures, we'll help you create an experience that leaves lasting memories while making a real impact.

If you'd like to organise your own charity challenge, get in touch with the team today and let's start planning your next adventure.

Herefordshire Mind Cat's Back Challenge Successfully Completed

30 People. 8 Miles. Countless Achievements.

What an incredible day.

During Mental Health Awareness Week 2026, thirty determined participants successfully completed the Herefordshire Mind Cat's Back Challenge, taking on one of the most spectacular walking routes along the England and Wales border in support of Herefordshire Mind.

Working alongside Herefordshire Mind, the team at Your Adventure Challenge guided participants across the iconic Black Hill, better known as The Cat's Back, on an unforgettable 8 mile adventure through the Black Mountains.

The challenge was about far more than reaching the finish line. It was about raising awareness of mental health, supporting a fantastic local charity, building confidence and proving that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things together.

A Challenge to Remember

The route took walkers across some of the most dramatic scenery in the Welsh borders.

Participants tackled steep climbs, exposed ridges, uneven terrain and changing weather conditions before being rewarded with panoramic views stretching across Herefordshire, the Black Mountains and beyond.

Along the way they experienced highlights including:

Every participant pushed themselves beyond their comfort zone, supporting one another from start to finish and creating an atmosphere that perfectly reflected the values of the event.

Supporting Mental Health in Herefordshire

The challenge formed part of Herefordshire Mind's Mental Health Awareness Week campaign, helping raise vital funds for local mental health services.

Every donation helps Herefordshire Mind continue providing support to people experiencing mental health difficulties throughout the county, ensuring more people have somewhere to turn when they need help most.

A huge thank you goes to everyone who:

Together, you made a real difference.

Watch the Highlights

We've put together a short video capturing some of the best moments from the day.

From the first climb to the final finish line celebrations, it showcases the determination, teamwork and breathtaking scenery that made the Herefordshire Mind Cat's Back Challenge such a memorable experience.

Fancy Taking On Your Own Adventure?

At Your Adventure Challenge, we believe outdoor adventures are for everyone.

Whether you're raising money for charity, organising a corporate team building event or simply looking to challenge yourself, we create professionally organised adventures that are safe, rewarding and unforgettable.

From mountain hikes and national challenge events to bespoke fundraising adventures, we'll help you create an experience that leaves lasting memories while making a real impact.

If you'd like to organise your own charity challenge, get in touch with the team today and let's start planning your next adventure.

West Mercia Rape & Sexual Abuse Support Centre Conquer The Welsh 3 Peaks Challenge

At Your Adventure Challenge, we are proud to support organisations that make a meaningful difference within their communities. Recently, we had the pleasure of organising and overseeing an incredible Welsh 3 Peaks challenge for West Mercia Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Centre, with an amazing team of 9 participants raising nearly £10,000 for the charity.

WMRASASC provides specialist support to anyone across Herefordshire and Worcestershire who is experiencing, or has experienced, any form of sexual violence or abuse at any point in their lives. The challenge was created not only to raise vital funds, but also to push participants both physically and mentally while supporting an important cause.

Six Months Of Training For The Welsh 3 Peaks

The team spent the last six months preparing for the challenge, training hard alongside support from Mark and the team at Your Adventure Challenge. Together, they worked on building fitness, endurance and confidence ahead of taking on one of the UK’s toughest mountain challenges.

The Welsh 3 Peaks challenge is known for its difficulty, with only around 40% of participants successfully completing all three mountains within 24 hours. Despite the demanding conditions, every single member of the team successfully completed the challenge, an incredible achievement and a testament to their determination and preparation.

Taking On Pen y Fan, Cader Idris And Snowdon

The adventure began with Pen y Fan, where the team completed the climb up and back down before travelling across Wales to continue the challenge.

Next came Cadair Idris, a physically demanding mountain known for its steep and challenging terrain. Despite the tough conditions, the team continued to support and motivate each other throughout the climb.

The final stage saw the group tackle Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), finishing the climb in the dark as they pushed through the final hours of the challenge. Through determination, teamwork and months of preparation, every single participant successfully completed the Welsh 3 Peaks within the 24 hour target.

Supporting An Incredible Team

The entire challenge was organised and overseen by Mark and the team from Your Adventure Challenge, who were on hand throughout to ensure safety, encouragement and support for every participant.

We are incredibly proud of the WMRASASC team for their commitment, resilience and teamwork throughout this challenge. Raising nearly £10,000 while completing one of the UK’s toughest endurance events is an outstanding achievement, and it was a pleasure working alongside such an inspiring group from start to finish.

River Wye, Symonds Yat: West Mercia Women's Aid Take on the Epic Challenge

At Your Adventure Challenge, we are proud to support charities and organisations that make a real difference within their communities. Recently, we had the privilege of organising and overseeing an incredible fundraising challenge for West Mercia Women's Aid, raising over £5,000 to support their vital work helping women and girls affected by domestic abuse and violence.

Set against the stunning backdrop of River Wye and Symonds Yat, 13 determined participants came together for a full day of adventure, teamwork and fundraising.

Canoeing The River Wye And Hiking Through Symonds Yat

The challenge began with a 9 mile canoe journey along the River Wye, travelling from Kerne Bridge to Symonds Yat. Paddling through one of the UK’s most scenic canoe routes, the team embraced the challenge while taking in the stunning views across the Wye Valley.

After arriving at Symonds Yat, participants continued with a demanding 10.5 mile hike through woodland trails, hills and famous viewpoints. The walking route took the group up to King Arthur's Cave before descending and crossing the iconic Biblins Bridge.

The final stretch included the climb to Symonds Yat Rock, offering breathtaking panoramic views over the River Wye, before heading back down to Symonds Yat West and finishing at The Royal Lodge.

Raising Over £5,000 For West Mercia Women’s Aid

The entire challenge was organised and overseen by Mark and the team from Your Adventure Challenge, who ensured participants remained safe, supported and motivated throughout the event.

At the finish line, participants were welcomed by The Taurus Chapter of the Widows Sons MBA, a Herefordshire based Masonic motorcycle association united by a shared passion for motorbikes, brotherhood and charity work. Organised by West Mercia Women’s Aid, the bikers escorted the group back to the hotel after the challenge, creating a memorable end to an incredible day.

The celebrations continued with an additional £600 donation presented by The Taurus Chapter of the Widows Sons MBA, helping to further support the essential services provided by West Mercia Women’s Aid. To recognise their achievement, every participant also received a medal at the end of the challenge.

We are incredibly proud of everyone from West Mercia Women's Aid who took part in this challenge. From the long canoe route to the demanding hike across Symonds Yat, every participant showed fantastic determination, teamwork and resilience throughout the day.

Malvern Hills Challenge: Conquering 15 Peaks in Aid of Herefordshire Mind

The Malvern Hills set the stage for our latest adventure, where a determined group of challengers took on the full length of this iconic ridgeline to raise vital funds for Herefordshire Mind. Covering 9 miles from North Quarry Car Park in Malvern to Chase End Hill near Ledbury, the group faced a tough but rewarding test of endurance, strength, and spirit.

A Strenuous but Stunning Challenge

This route is not for the faint-hearted. With 15 peaks and over 6,000ft of elevation gain, participants had to dig deep to complete the full traverse. The journey showcased some of the best scenery in the region, with far-reaching views across Herefordshire, Worcestershire, and Gloucestershire. Along the way, challengers walked in the footsteps of history, passing Bronze Age hill forts and encountering ancient geological formations that make the Malverns such a unique landscape.

The Day in Numbers

Despite the challenging temperatures, the team showed outstanding resilience and camaraderie. Every steep climb and descent was tackled with determination, proving that with the right support and mindset, even the toughest terrain can be conquered.

Raising Over £4,800 for Herefordshire Mind

This challenge was about more than just the hills. Together, the group raised over £4,800 to support the life-changing work of Herefordshire Mind. The funds will go towards vital mental health services, ensuring more people can access the help they need when they need it most.

A Team Effort

The event was brilliantly organised by David and Chloe from Herefordshire Mind, with guidance and support from the Your Adventure Challenge team, who ensured everyone was safe, motivated, and able to reach the finish line.

Memories That Last

The Malvern Hills Challenge delivered everything an adventure should: spectacular landscapes, physical and mental tests, and a shared sense of achievement. For those who took part, it was a day of endurance, teamwork, and fundraising success that will be remembered for years to come.

Scaling Peaks, Raising Hope: YMCA’s Epic Fundraising Challenge

Three Mountains. One Epic Mission. Lives Changed Forever.

What a weekend. Nine incredible individuals took on one of the UK’s toughest endurance challenges and came out victorious. The UK Three Peaks Challenge is no small feat – climbing Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike, and Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) in just 24 hours demands not only fitness and stamina but determination, teamwork, and purpose. And the YMCA Black Country Group challengers brought it all.

From the rugged slopes of Scotland’s Ben Nevis to the dramatic climbs of Scafell Pike in the Lake District and finally to the summit of Yr Wyddfa in Wales, they pushed through fatigue, weather, and the relentless ticking clock. And they did it not for glory, but for the future of young people back home.

Over £7,500 Raised for Youth in the Black Country

So far, this heroic effort has raised more than £7,500 – a powerful step towards the team’s goal of £10,000. Every pound will go towards supporting vital youth work across the Black Country, helping hundreds of young people to build confidence, develop skills, and create brighter futures.

Whether it’s mentoring, housing support, life skills or simply having a safe place to turn, YMCA Black Country Group is there for young people when they need it most. This challenge wasn’t just about reaching the summit – it was about lifting others up along the way.

More Than a Mountain

The Three Peaks Challenge is more than just an adventure. It’s a symbol of what’s possible when people come together with a shared goal. Months of training, fundraising, and team building led to this moment. And the result? Hundreds of lives will be changed.

To everyone who donated, cheered them on, or shared their journey – thank you. Your support is part of this story.

Inspired? Your Turn Starts Now

Think you’re not adventurous enough? Think again. The beauty of challenges like this is that they start with a decision – a decision to say yes, to step outside your comfort zone, and to do something that truly matters.

Join us next time. Take on a challenge, support your community, and discover what you're capable of. Because adventure, purpose, and impact go hand in hand.

Let’s climb higher. Together.

To donate or find out more about how you can get involved, visit YMCA Black Country Group or follow Your Adventure Challenge for future events.

The Adventure Revolution: Why Choosing Challenge Transforms Lives

Inspired by a conversation with adventurer and author Belinda Kirk

At Your Adventure Challenge, we believe that adventure has the power to change lives, not just through the challenges themselves, but through everything that leads up to them. That belief was echoed in a recent conversation between Steve Bollschweiler and Belinda Kirk, one of the UK’s most experienced expedition leaders and the author of Adventure Revolution. In their conversation, they explored why adventure matters, how it can impact mental wellbeing, and what it really means to live adventurously, even in small ways.

Adventure Isn’t Just for the Elite

Belinda Kirk has led expeditions around the world for over 30 years, but she’s on a mission to rebrand adventure. For many, the word conjures images of bearded men scaling mountains or racing to the poles. But Belinda believes adventure is something much broader and much more accessible.

“Adventure,” she says, “is a chosen challenge.” It doesn’t have to be big, expensive or dramatic. It can be as simple as wild swimming in a local river, camping in the back garden, going geocaching with your children or trying a new physical skill. What matters is that it’s a challenge you choose, and that you commit to stepping outside your comfort zone.

Adventure Is Good for You and There’s Science to Prove It

Belinda’s book, Adventure Revolution, is based not just on her years of experience but also on neuroscience, psychology and evolutionary theory. Humans evolved as hunter gatherers, physically active, risk aware, and connected to nature. But today’s society has removed much of that from daily life, leaving many of us mentally and physically unfulfilled.

Adventure, she argues, is not a luxury. It’s essential. The evidence shows that adventure helps us develop confidence, resilience, better mental health and deeper social connections. And while personal stories are powerful, it’s the science that often helps shift policy and challenge the idea that adventure is a frivolous pastime.

Start Small, Start Now

One of the biggest barriers to adventure is perception. People often believe they’re not adventurous, or that they’re not fit or skilled enough. But Belinda insists that anyone can begin, and the key is to start small. Book a challenge that excites you, find people who share your interests, and begin preparing. The act of booking a challenge, even months in advance, is itself a powerful step.

At Your Adventure Challenge, we support you through that journey. Our challenges are designed to be inclusive, safe, and achievable with the right preparation. Whether it’s a multi-day paddle, the National Three Peaks, or a bespoke team expedition, the adventure starts the moment you decide to do it.

Risk, Resilience and Raising Adventurous Children

A recurring theme in the conversation was the role of perceived risk. Adventure doesn’t mean unnecessary danger. It means giving people (including children) the space to assess, manage and grow from challenge. Belinda spoke about giving her son his first knife at five years old, not as an act of recklessness, but as a careful, guided introduction to responsibility and skill building.

When children are allowed to take calculated risks, they become more self-reliant and resilient. This mindset also applies to adults. Whether it’s learning to whittle or preparing for your first long-distance hike, the confidence built through adventure carries over into all areas of life, from work to relationships to self-belief.

Changing the Narrative

Belinda’s hope is that more people start talking about adventure as a tool for wellbeing, personal development and societal change. And the best way to make that happen? Go on your own adventure and bring someone with you. Talk about it. Celebrate it. Share the impact it had on you.

If you’re a professional working in education, health or wellbeing, you can also explore the Adventure Mind research project, which provides evidence summaries to support the benefits of adventure.

Final Thoughts

Adventure is not just something you do. It’s a mindset, a lifestyle, and a catalyst for change. At Your Adventure Challenge, we see time and again how taking on a challenge, however big or small, can unlock something powerful in people. And as Belinda so perfectly puts it, the key is to start now, start small, and find people who will support you.

So what’s stopping you? The call to adventure is already in you. Say yes, prepare for the journey, and let the transformation begin.

Paddle for a Purpose: A 38-Mile Kayaking Challenge Video

At Your Adventure Challenge, we believe in the transformative power of the outdoors — not just for individuals, but for communities. The recent Paddle for Purpose event perfectly captured this spirit, combining grit, generosity, and group determination into a powerful 38-mile kayaking journey through the heart of Worcestershire.

How It Started: An Ambitious Idea

The concept began when Steve from Business Doctors approached Glenn with a bold idea: a 38-mile kayak down the River Severn. Glenn, with no previous kayaking experience, was intrigued and presented the idea to Mandy from Headway Worcestershire. The response was immediate and enthusiastic. Eight local business owners signed up to take part, all driven by a shared goal: to raise awareness and essential funds for adults living with acquired brain injuries.

Training for a Mission

Despite their varied experience levels, the team committed to twelve weeks of rigorous weekend training. The longest distance covered during practice was 22 miles — a far cry from the full challenge ahead. Yet, armed with determination and a shared purpose, they pushed forward.

Partnering with Your Adventure Challenge

To ensure the event ran smoothly and safely, Headway Worcestershire brought in Your Adventure Challenge, led by Mark Stancer, to handle the logistics and risk management. With professional support and detailed planning, the event unfolded without a hitch — a testament to our experience in managing outdoor adventure events that are both ambitious and inclusive.

The Route: From Bewdley to Tewkesbury

Paddling a 38-mile stretch of the River Severn through Worcestershire offered a fresh and immersive way to see the county. Participants passed under bridges they usually drove over, offering a new perspective on their home surroundings. Mark shadowed the team from start to finish, ensuring their safety and cheering them on from the riverbanks.

A Cause Worth Paddling For

Headway Worcestershire supports over 400 people affected by acquired brain injuries — a condition that, tragically, affects someone every 90 seconds in the UK. These injuries can impact cognition, mobility, memory, and emotional wellbeing. The charity provides wellbeing services that help clients relearn essential skills and regain independence. Events like Paddle for Purpose are vital for raising the funds needed to continue this life-changing work.

The Finish Line: A Celebration of Strength and Community

Crossing the finish line was more than a physical victory. It was a celebration of teamwork, perseverance, and the kindness of a community coming together for a shared purpose. The donations received, the stories shared, and the challenges overcome will leave a lasting legacy for everyone involved. Over £10,000 was raised plus great awareness across hundreds of people.

Join Us Next Year

This year’s success has already sparked conversations about making Paddle for Purpose an annual event. With overwhelming community support and participants already keen for round two, we can’t wait to see where next year’s journey will take us.

Inspired to take on your own adventure challenge for charity? Whether it’s kayaking, hiking, or something totally unique, we’ll help plan, guide, and deliver a safe and unforgettable experience. Get in touch today to start your own adventure for a cause.

Paddle for a Purpose: 38 Miles along the River Severn

At Your Adventure Challenge, we specialise in turning bold ideas into extraordinary real-life adventures. This Good Friday, we had the privilege of supporting and organising one of the most inspiring charity challenges we’ve ever seen: 38 miles paddled down the River Severn in support of Headway Worcestershire, a charity dedicated to people with acquired brain injuries.

Eight determined members of the Top Networking group set off from Bewdley with a single goal — to reach Tewkesbury by kayak. What unfolded was an epic test of endurance, resilience and teamwork across one of the UK’s longest rivers, under some seriously testing conditions.

From Idea to Adventure

This challenge began as a vision from Steve Ennis of Business Doctors and quickly evolved into a fully-fledged expedition thanks to months of planning, preparation and coordination by our experienced team at Your Adventure Challenge.

Despite only two of the eight participants having more than a year’s kayaking experience, we worked closely with the group to transform complete beginners into river-ready adventurers. Over three months, we supported their training, guided their preparation and ensured that every paddler had the confidence, skills and support they needed.

Planning a Safe and Scenic 38-Mile Route

The River Severn is not to be underestimated. Its winding course, variable depths, fast-flowing sections and active locks make it both beautiful and hazardous — especially when high winds and rainfall make conditions unpredictable. Our team mapped a safe and achievable route from Bewdley to Tewkesbury, coordinating with lock keepers, planning emergency access points and providing full logistical support on land and water.

On the day of the event, we deployed professional river guides to paddle with the team and stationed a mobile support crew along the route, fully equipped to assist in case of any incident.

That planning paid off. When one kayaker capsized in a remote section of the river, our support team responded instantly — executing a swift and safe recovery using ropes and team coordination honed from years of experience. Safety is always our priority, and this moment showed exactly why it matters.

Weathering the Challenge

The River Severn delivered a challenge worthy of the cause. Strong winds swept down the valley, bringing with them bursts of heavy rain. The paddlers faced difficult currents, battled fatigue and had to pass through multiple locks, some of which required careful negotiation and manual handling of boats.

Despite the conditions, every participant remained focused, fuelled by months of preparation and sheer determination. The atmosphere was electric, with family, friends and our YAC crew cheering them on from the banks.

Eleven and a Half Hours Later

After more than eleven hours on the water, every single kayaker crossed the finish line in Tewkesbury. From the youngest paddler to the oldest at 70, the team pulled together to complete this physically and mentally demanding journey.

They did more than just finish. Together, they raised over £10,500 for Headway Worcester — not including Gift Aid — providing vital funding and raising awareness for a cause that touches countless lives. The challenge also gained media attention across local newspapers and radio stations, shining a spotlight on the work Headway Worcester does in the community.

The Impact Beyond the Paddle

For those who took part, this was more than a fundraising event. It was a personal transformation. Many learned new skills, discovered confidence in the unknown and built connections that will last a lifetime. One participant shared how kayaking became not only a way to connect with his children but also great for your mental health.

This is exactly what Your Adventure Challenge is all about: building lasting memories, creating purpose-driven experiences and empowering people to achieve something extraordinary.

Meet the Paddle for a Purpose Team

Supported by Glen Jansen and Mandie Fitzgerald of Headway Worcestershire

Photography by Middlebrook Productions

Ready for Your Own Adventure?

Whether it’s navigating the iconic River Severn, climbing a mountain or trekking over scenic hills, we’re here to help you plan, train and complete your next unforgettable challenge.

Your Adventure Challenge is where teamwork, purpose and adventure come together.

Start planning your next challenge with us today.

Training for the Three Peaks – Scafell Ascent & Descent

Our team took on a training climb up Scafell, preparing for the ultimate Three Peaks Challenge. The journey began with clear skies, but as they gained altitude, the temperature dropped, and the summit revealed a frozen landscape. Despite the cold and tricky terrain, everyone made it to the top in just 2.5 hours! The descent was no easier—testing knees, legs, and stamina—but it was all part of the challenge. Since Scafell will be tackled in the dark during the real event, this practice climb was crucial. Watch the video to see the highs, lows, and determination of the team in action!

Video Credit @grcmdx (Instagram)