A runaway success!
MEMBERS and staff at the Victoria Leisure gym have raised more than £6,000 in a twoday sponsored workout.
Participants in the event walked, ran, swam, cycled and rowed a total distance of more than 1,000 miles – all within the Promenade gym.
The annual charity drive was organised to raise money for Cancer Research North West and Wally Birch, the Victoria’s owner, says he was blown away at the total raised.
Sponsored efforts also included a packed-out two-hour zumba session and another two-hour spinning session, while further money was raised through a raffle and through coffee and cake sales in the leisure centre’s café area.
Special recognition was given to June Obersby, who for the second year running raised the highest individual amount. June was sponsored £541 for swimming two miles and was rewarded with an overnight stay at the Ramada Plaza Hotel with dinner and breakfast in recognition of her achievement.
The fundraising brought together people of all ages, with the ages of the participants ranging from Wally himself, 80, to the likes of Beatrice Rothwell, 6, and Jacob Luty, 5.
Wally said: “Once again, I must give a big thank you to all the members who supported the event and purchased tickets for the raffle.
“To beat last year’s figure is a great achievement and show how important this charity is to members in its fight to beat cancer.
“The charity Cancer Research North West deserves all the support it can get to beat this life-threatening disease.”
The Victoria is one of Southport oldest gyms and also prides itself on being the most family-friendly.
The centre has three swimming pools, including one which is suitable for all the family and one specifically for babies and small children.
The independent business is family run and also boasts a cardio area, free weights section and ladies only gym facilities.
Classes on offer at the gym include those for relaxation such as yoga, or the more energetic variety, including Studio Spin classes, Body Combat, Circuit Training, Zumba and many more.
To find out about membership, visit the gym, call 01704 541220 or visit victorialeisure.com