Race Across Norfolk
By: Communications
Inspired by the popular TV show ‘Race Across the World,’ a group of UEA students raced across Norfolk in teams of two, navigating from checkpoint to checkpoint without the aid of technology or cashless payments.
The students started their excursion on campus at Congregation Hall and ended in Lowestoft, home to the office of benefitting charity, Inspire.
The race spanned two days and was documented on the team's Instagram account @raceacrossnorfolk and in a short video on UEA’s TikTok Page.
Freya Standing, Biological Sciences student, and Jess Cunliffe, Physical Activity and Health student, managed to stop at a whopping 26 villages along their journey, making them the winners of the inaugural Race Across Norfolk.
Caption: Race Across Norfolk Winners Jess (left) and Freya (right)
Fellow competitors shared their experiences of the race:
Mia Everitt, who studies International Development with Anthropology, said:
“It was an incredible experience; one I feel super grateful to have been able to create and even more grateful to be surrounded by such amazing friends and support.
“We got to experience the greatest side of human nature along the way, with people helping us out with lifts, advice, and encouragement. We raised a lot of money for an incredible cause, and the charity was so thankful and generous. We hope to continue the tradition!”
Nell Griffiths, who studies Journalism, added:
“I am so grateful to have been part of this experience. It has definitely been a challenge, but it was way more rewarding than it was hard. I got to see parts of Norfolk I probably never would have been able to… unless I get very lost one day!
“Crossing Reedham Ferry was the best 50p I have ever spent. I’m looking forward to doing it all again next year, with a lot more plasters!”
Maddy McNiven, Journalism student, shared:
“Race Across Norfolk was an incredible opportunity—made better by raising money for Inspire! Although the race was tough (and led to lots of blisters), I had an amazing time.
“Working as a team to get from A to B, just relying on a map and compass, was not easy but felt so rewarding when we finally made it. I can’t wait to do it again next year (hopefully) and I’ll definitely come prepared with more plasters!”
Caption: L-R: Nell Griffiths, Maddy McNiven, Harry McDonagh and Liv Seeley
In an interview with BBC Radio Norfolk, Catherine from Inspire shared insights into the work of the charity:
“Inspire currently works with around 1,500 young people aged 16-25, helping them take the next step into education, work, or training. We provide access to several different programmes, as well as offer a well-being service with free counselling and a youth employment service.”
The students plan to make Race Across Norfolk an annual event, continuing to support Inspire and their mission to bring education and business together.
The fundraiser has currently raised more than £1,300. Nell said: “Inspire is such an incredible charity, and we are so happy to have raised so much money for them, to help them continue their great work.
“Inspire charity helps young people and communities achieve a better future and get the support that they need. Without them, a lot of people in Suffolk and Norfolk wouldn’t be where they are today.”
Follow the teams Instagram to catch up on all the action of the events. The fundraising page can be found on JustGiving.
Follow Inspire Charity on Instagram