All-night fundraiser held to help give slaves a sporting chance
A combination of Arran High School and local primary pupils have raised the phenomenal total of £1,766.16 for ‘Sport for Freedom’ by taking part in an all-night Sportathon at the high school.
The event took place on the night of Friday, June 3 and saw pupils taking part in activities ranging from trampolining and Tae Kwon-Do to ultimate frisbee and softball between the hours of 7pm and 7am.
Sport for Freedom is a global charity which was started by ex-Sky Sports presenter Julia Immonen after watching the Liam Neeson film, Taken.
She couldn’t comprehend how atrocities such as human trafficking and slavery were still present in the world today – and indeed in Britain – and therefore now dedicates her time to reducing such instances through educating, rehabilitating and inspiring others to undertake gruelling challenges to raise money and awareness.
Julia is the cousin of local minister Lily McKinnon, who spoke passionately to school pupils before Christmas about slavery, which still exists in the world and the importance of reflecting on the value of freedom – something perhaps all of us take for granted. It was this stirring speech which gave Jack Simmons the impetus to organise a memorable fundraiser for the young people of Arran.
He said: ‘As part of being a newly-qualified teacher I was obliged to undertake some form of project which addressed real world issues with the young people in my school. I thought that it would be most worthwhile if I did something that would benefit the school, the pupils and even better, a charity of local interest. Naturally, as soon as I mentioned my thoughts to the ever-enthusiastic Archie McNicol, he was immediately on board and together we planned and ran the event with the help of several friends and locals.
‘On that note, we would like to thank our fantastic community coaches who came in to deliver rugby, triathlon, Tae Kwon-Do and football sessions. Can I also say a huge thank you to our very understanding neighbours, the residents of Lamlash, who selflessly put up with our noise and floodlights late into the night, and again at sunrise!
‘I’d also like to mention the generosity of both Mitie and KA Leisure who granted us the facilities free of charge in order to complete this fantastic challenge, but most importantly a huge thanks goes out to those who donated and the young people who put their fatigue to one side for a great cause.
‘Archie has been at the heart of everything sport-related at the school over the last year, and was delighted to be part of such a unique and inspirational charity event.’
Archie added: ‘When Jack approached me with his all night sportathon idea I couldn’t wait to get involved. In our day-to-day work we strive towards giving each and every pupil on the island opportunities to compete and perform in sport on a level playing field to mainland pupils.
Giving them this opportunity to raise money and realise just how lucky they are to be brought up in the surroundings and freedom of Arran provides a great learning experience.’