Setting out on Wednesday 26th May 2021, Sally Hext set off on a 100km trek from Minehead to Braunton along with friends Sue and Justine. The trio set their sights on completing the challenge in under 30 hours across five days.
Sally’s motivation was her daughter, Suzanna, who suffered a spinal cord injury in 2012 at the age of 23. After overcoming multiple health issues, Suzanna went on to pursue a successful career as an international para dressage rider, winning three European gold medals in 2017. More recently, she joined the British Para Swimming team and is hoping to join the England team at the Tokyo Paralympics.
Seeing the impact Suzanna’s injury had on her life, Sally’s fundraiser was an opportunity to raise awareness of the challenges faced by those living with SCI as well as funding research into a cure.
Day one: Minehead to Porlock Weir
With the weather on their side, Sally, Justine and Sue completed the first stretch in four hours, motivated by the stunning views of Exmoor.
Day two: Porlock Weir to Lynton
With some very challenging climbs, day two was completed in five hours. The trio crossed the border from Somerset into Devon, where the sun continued to shine down on them.
Day three: Lynton to Coombe Martin
Tired from the day before, day three proved to be the toughest stretch. Despite some steep climbs, the day was complete in six hours.
Day four: 18 miles
The fourth day brought yet more sunshine as Sally, Justine and Sue covered 18 miles in six hours.
Day five: the final stretch!
Spurred on by incoming donations, crowds of supporters and more beautiful weather, the trio finished their challenge in under six hours, bringing their total time 27 hours!
We would like to say a BIG thank you to Sally, Justine and Sue for raising over £5,000 to date for spinal cord injury research, and congratulations for completing the challenge!
