Hi, I’m Ellie, a 16-year-old student at Oxford Spires Academy, and I’ve been given an incredible opportunity to take part in an expedition in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. This opportunity comes through the Air Cadets, where I’m an active member. Over the next few months, I’ll be working hard to raise the necessary funds to make this dream a reality, and I would be extremely grateful for any support you can offer.

This expedition is a huge challenge and an unforgettable adventure. I’ll be part of a team of 22 cadets, all aged between 16 and 18, from across the UK. We’ll be traveling to Canada for just over two weeks to embark on a rigorous and exciting journey in the stunning Banff National Park, situated in the heart of the Rockies.

The selection process to be part of this expedition was tough. It started with an application, followed by a three-day selection event that tested our teamwork, survival skills, and determination. I’m proud to say that I made it through! The expedition has a prestigious history, having twice been awarded the Shackleton Trophy, which is given to the best overseas expedition in the UK cadet armed forces.

To take part, we each need to raise over £1500 to cover the costs of equipment, training, flights, and other expenses. It’s a lot of money, but this expedition will be one of the most life-changing experiences of my life. I am asking for your help in raising these funds to ensure I can join the team and take part in this amazing adventure.

Over the next nine months, we’ll be completing several training exercises in the UK to prepare us for the challenges ahead. This includes everything from hiking and navigation to survival skills and leadership training. Once we arrive in Canada, we’ll go through additional training to help us acclimatize to the high altitudes and prepare for our trek through the wilderness.

The highlight of our trip will be a six-day, 90 km trek across the Nordegg Wilderness, with an elevation of over 3000 meters. We’ll each be carrying over 26 kg, including tents and food for the entire week. Each day, we’ll take turns leading our group, which will challenge our leadership abilities, teamwork, and resilience.

At the end of the trek, we’ll get to experience some amazing local activities, such as mountain biking and white-water rafting, to celebrate our hard work and achievements.

If you’re able to support me, I would be incredibly grateful. In return for your generosity, I will make sure to keep you updated on the journey through social media. I’ll share posts and tag you, so you can follow along every step of the way as I embark on this unforgettable adventure.

I will be running the Wargrave 10km on Sunday 29th June in exchange for your sponsorship! Despite being active I am certainly not a confident runner and so this will be a big challenge for me but I am looking forward to conquering this distance as a novice runner. (For context, I was sick during last years 300m race at sports day last year!)

Thank you so much for your consideration.

With gratitude,

Ellie-Mae