What this medal means to me
The coveted 1000-mile medal is so much more than a mere bauble to its rightful owner – whose miles have charged it with significance...
500, 1000, 1500 and 2000-mile medals, each with a certificate are available from www. walk1000miles. co.uk/shop
‘Further than I thought possible’
‘This medal represents a series of victories for me. When I started the challenge, even a walk around the block was difficult. I would sometimes have to be convinced by my partner or sister to go out and get my steps in. But I stuck at it, and a few months later I was able to complete a 10-mile walking event. Not only that, I finished in the top 10 – and beat my fiancé’s time too! But my biggest victory was finishing the 1000 miles four months early. I have come further than I ever thought possible!’
‘I have more #walk1000miles medals hanging on my key rack than keys – so every time I come in and out my house, I see them and smile knowing that this is something I can do that is good for me in every way.’ Michelle Martin
‘For someone who used to do about 2000-3000 steps a day, I’ve come a long way!’ Emma Sullivan
‘Instant gratification and recall of great adventures and fun times – and a constant reminder I can achieve a lot when I put my mind to it.’ Gillian Crockley
‘Last year I achieved a 500-mile medal and if I do it this year it means that cancer is not crushing me. If all goes to plan treatment wise, I should be able to proudly wear a 1000-mile medal in 2023. I will be so proud I could explode with joy. What it symbolises is priceless!’ Jennie McGinlay
‘It means a massive sense of pride. And knowing, seven years since the breakdown that nearly took me, that it was #walk1000miles that inspired me then, and has inspired me every year since to push myself further.’ Walker Sean
‘This year it shows that, despite serious arthritis and a knee replacement in April, it can still be achieved.’ Don Lane
‘Got my medal and I’m so proud of myself – this has kept my mental health going!’ Julie Clegg
‘Sheer pride, as I almost gave up when life pressures were getting too much. I pushed myself to do just a mile to keep myself going and it paid off. I now have my mojo back and I’m enjoying my life again.’ Sue Bryan
‘Walking 1000 miles in a year while juggling full-time work, housework and other commitments is a huge achievement, and it’s nice to have a lump of metal that says you did it!’ Slinky Baloo