Rucking 4 Lions

In support of The Big Cat Sanctuary Big Cats in Crisis campaign

One of our Trustees is taking on an EPIC CHALLENGE in support of The Big Cat Sanctuary's Big Cats in Crisis Campaign...

My Rucking for Lions fundraiser is in support of the Big Cat Sanctuary’s Big Cats in Crisis campaign. The Big Cat Sanctuary aims to provide a forever home for five African lions currently housed at Wildlife Animal Rescue (WAR) in Kyiv, Ukraine. There are four lionesses named Vanda, Amani, Lira, and Yuna, and one male lion called Rori. The Big Cat Sanctuary is working hard to bring all five lions to their site in Smarden, Kent.

The ongoing war in Ukraine has caused much distress to these cats, especially to Yuna and Rori, who have unfortunately suffered from shell shock due to a massive attack in Kyiv.

Urgent funds are necessary to build a rescue centre and safely transport the lions from Ukraine to the UK.

The Big Cat Sanctuary is a renowned family-run centre dedicated to conserving and protecting endangered big cats. With its team of experienced professionals and state-of-the-art facilities, the sanctuary provides a safe and nurturing environment for a variety of big and small cat species, including lions, tigers, leopards, jaguars, and cheetahs. The Big Cat Sanctuary strives to secure a brighter future for these magnificent creatures through rescue, education, research, and conservation initiatives.

My goal is to raise essential funds and awareness to support the Big Cat Sanctuary and their Big Cats in Crisis campaign, whilst showing solidarity with all those affected by the war in Ukraine, both people and wildlife.

Throughout this challenge, I also intend to support mental health and well-being for others through local community engagement, exercise, and activities.

Why Rucking?

I wanted my challenge to represent the current struggles faced by both humans and wildlife in war-torn Ukraine, highlighting the significant narrative of the Big Cats in Crisis campaign. And what better way to represent this fundraiser than by adopting a soldier’s mindset?

Rucking (also known as a loaded march) is a form of exercise with roots in military training. Simply put, it involves walking a set distance while carrying weight in a backpack.

While terminology and distances may differ, loaded marching remains an irreplaceable training tool for armed forces worldwide. Rucking develops the cardiovascular and muscular strength vital for soldiers to bear the weight of battle. More importantly, it forges mental stamina, courage, and an unbreakable will to win. Any military that takes fitness and readiness seriously will utilise rucking in some form.

I have set my ruck load for this challenge at a minimum of 35 lbs dry weight. Dry weight refers to the weight load before any additions. Extra weight may include water bottles, snacks, clothing, or anything else essential for the journey. All miles travelled will only count towards my set target of 817 miles when I am carrying a minimum of 35lbs weighted backpack.

Why 817 miles?

I have chosen a total of 817 miles as a call for unity and peace across Ukraine. From west to east, Ukraine has a total distance of 817 miles (1,316 km). By pushing myself to cover this distance, I aim to demonstrate resilience, determination, and commitment to making a positive difference in the world for both people and wildlife.

Please support this vital cause by donating to my Rucking for Lions fundraiser. Your generous contributions will help provide a safe haven for these lions and support the incredible work of the Big Cat Sanctuary. Together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of these magnificent creatures and support a better future for them.

CHALLENGE COMPLETED

1st JUNE 2024 - 21st SEPTEMBVER 2024

Thank you for all you kind donations so far. If you would like to pledge a donation, please visit the Rucking 4 Lions JUST GIVING page by clicking HERE 🦁

Alternatively you can donate direct to THE BIG CAT SANCTUARY at www.thebigcatsanctuary.org

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