Tanky's Trog 2024

On Sunday the 15th September I will be walking from Marsden to Edale (with help from a few of my friends) to what Google maps says is a 28 mile walk (could be longer if I lose my route), to fundraise for my fast approaching expedition to Costa Rica with Raleigh International.

The reason for this is to relive my Grandads footsteps. My Grandad known as 'Tanky' was a pioneer in the outdoor scene and opened one of the first outdoor retail shops in Sheffield (as well as in the country). In 1972, he came up with an idea to organise a fell running competition at Christmas time covering the Peak District, it was originally called the Turkey Trot as entrants got a turkey for completing it! It then became an annual event for over 40 years widely known as Tanky’s Trog. The terrain, poor visibility and strictly only being able to use a map and compass made this run particularly difficult. Unfortunately Tankys Trog became a struggle for my family to continue and stopped in 2009, as Alzheimer's disease began to play a factor in 'Tankys' health. My Grandad sadly died in December on his birthday in 2015 as a result of Dementia.

Tanky's Trog is now known as the 'Trigger Route' - and still strictly no GPS navigation is allowed!

Now while I am able to dodge the bleak winter weather, by walking this in September there is no escaping the 3,500/4,000ft of elevation. I always like to say I am an active person however, I have never taken part in a long distance walk or completed any trial like this and that's without thinking about the zero orienteering experience I have . thankfully, this last week I have been doing some preparation in the Lake District.

The first £500 donated will be going to Raleigh international. While in Costa Rica I will be contributing to multiple projects to achieve sustainability for the country. The money in excess to this will be going to Alzheimer's society charity in memory of my Grandad 'Tanky'. This charity is working towards a goal to treat dementia and highlight earlier signs; 1 in 3 people will now get diagnosed with dementia in their lifetime. It is also Alzheimer's awareness month this month so no better time then highlighting the issues around the disease!

Please help me raise what we can for this cause, It would be greatly appreciated by myself and anyone that has to experience this GoFundMe

Throughout this next week I will be updating this Facebook page to keep everyone updated - Tanky's Trog - if you would like to follow this to see how I get on (or for your own entertainment when I go the wrong route)