Venus Challenge - Your Questions Answered
Who can take part in the Venus Challenge?
Women aged over 16 years, of all fitness levels can take up the Venus Challenge.
Why can only women take part?
The Venus Challenge is a special walk for women only, to join together to make a difference to local people with life-limiting illnesses. Although men are not invited to take part in the walk, they are certainly not excluded and can be involved in marshalling and fundraising for the event. If you are a man who would like to help with this event please email kfarmer@st-michaels-hospice.org.uk or call 01432 851000.
Can children take part?
The Venus Challenge is not suitable for girls under the age of 16. No pushchairs or prams are permitted.
How many women will be walking?
Spaces are limited to 800 women.
How do I apply to take part?
The walk opened to everyone on 6th May and places will be allocated on a first come first served basis. Application forms will be available online as soon as possible or you can call the Events Team on 01432 851000 and they will send you one. Places are limited to 800. Last year we were oversubscribed so we recommend you apply early. The closing date for applications is Friday 29th August 2008, subject to entries. Please note - you cannot enter on the night.
How much does it cost to take part?
There is a £15 registration fee. This covers the cost of administration, a special Venus Challenge t-shirt, a light breakfast at the end of the walk and a certificate. This way, all the sponsorship raised goes directly to helping Hospice patients.
How long is the route?
The route is 10km (just over 6 miles). There will be a water station midway along the walk.
Where does the walk go?
The walk starts and finishes at Hereford Leisure Centre, and follows a circular route around well-lit areas of Hereford.
Will it be safe?
Your safety is extremely importance to us. The route is lit and will be well marshalled by volunteers. All walkers will be registered at the start and finish and a midway point in between. There will also be front and rear ‘Lead Walkers' to ensure the last participants return safely.
Is the route suitable for wheelchairs?
Yes the route is suitable for wheelchairs. Please contact us to discuss further, prior to entry.
How long will it take?
The walk will take approximately 2 hours for a fit walker but there is no rush and we encourage walkers to go at their own pace.
Are there toilets on the walk?
There are toilets and refreshments on route.
Do I need to be fit?
No, you can take it at your own pace, but as with all physical challenges we do recommend that you should train before taking part in the walk.
Will there be any refreshments?
We suggest you bring water, but there will be refreshments at the mid point and a light breakfast at the end.
Can I bring my dog?
No pets or animals are permitted on the Venus Challenge or on the event route except for guide dogs.
Is there a minimum amount of sponsorship I have to raise?
We do not ask for a minimum amount of sponsorship, but remember every pound you raise will go towards helping St Michael's Hospice care for local people with life-limiting illnesses and supporting their family and friends.
How can I get sponsorship?
There will be a sponsorship form included in your pack. Don't be afraid to ask all your friends and family, work colleagues and everyone else you know! You can also set up your own page on justgiving.com and email all your contacts with the address - a much easier way to collect the money! Don't forget to ask all those who sponsor you to tick the Gift Aid box (if they are eligible) as this increases their sponsorship by 28p for each £1, at no extra cost to them.
Who is eligible to tick the Gift Aid box?
UK taxpayers or people who pay Capital Gains Tax. Don't forget to tell them that for every £1 they sponsor you, we get an extra 28p from the government at no extra cost to them.
What should I wear?
We recommend that you wear comfortable clothing and well fitting, sturdy footwear/trainers. Please wear your Venus Challenge T-shirt on the night.
Do I need a torch?
Although we are walking through well-lit areas, we do recommend you bring a torch.
Will there be parking on the night?
The Hereford Leisure Centre are very kindly hosting the event and do have parking available. However, wherever possible we recommend that participants share cars to the Leisure Centre.
What time should I arrive at the Leisure Centre?
Registration will take place at the Hereford Leisure Centre from 10.00pm in the main reception. Please arrive at least ½ an hour before the start of the event at Midnight.
