Two Chorley fitness fanatics are inviting the public to witness their wackiest challenge yet – climbing 8,849m, the height of Mt. Everest, on a gym stair-climbing machine.
Gym manager and trainer, Rob Quilliam, 30, has challenged himself and a fellow trainer to climb 58,000 steps in 24 hours to raise money for Derian House Children’s Hospice.
“I had knee surgery over a year ago and I really thought that was it for me; I didn’t think I’d be doing any fundraising ever again.” Said Rob, who is the manager and part owner of Evolve Health and Fitness Hub in Chorley.
“But I’m really passionate about fundraising, especially for children’s charities like Derian House. It’s an amazing local hospice that does a lot for its families.”
Rob and fellow trainer, Matthew Todd, 16, are inviting the public to watch their challenge, which will begin at 11am at Evolve gym and continue over 24 hours (23 – 24 February).
The plucky pair will be taking cash donations on the day, as well as games and prizes for those who come along.
“I asked Matt if he’d like to do something too and he was keen – so I said sound, let’s do it, and let’s make it a tough one!” continued Rob.
“Obviously tackling Everest will be a huge challenge, it’s over 4,000 floors to climb on a stair machine! I’ll have to be careful, especially with my knee. But I’m sure we’ll smash it.
“We’ve been doing lots of extra cardio in preparation. We’ve been eating lots too! I’m really buzzing for the challenge – it’s going to be a great 24 hours. And we’d love for people to come and cheer us on. So if you’re local, come on down to Evolve on the day and help keep us going! It will all be worth it for Derian House.”
Ann-Marie Fishwick, Community Fundraiser at Derian House, said: “Rob and Matt are really brave to tackle such a huge challenge – we wish them the best of luck!
“It cost £6 million to run services at Derian House in 2023. We rely heavily on the generosity our local community – just like Rob and Matt – to make sure we can continue to provide care for our families.”
Donate to Rob and Matt’s Everest challenge: https://gofund.me/2f2ec43a
Derian House, based in Astley Village, Chorley, cares for more than 400 babies, children, young people and their families from across the North West and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Find out more: www.derianhouse.co.uk
