Thirteen teams from the New Media sector set out across the Exmoor countryside on foot and bike, amid the scenic surroundings of Wimbleball Lake.  The teams were divided into two groups, with half setting off on an undulating 16km trail challenge on foot around the lake, while the other half took off on bikes, stopping along the 24km route to complete a fast-paced 2km canoe relay across the water.  The day’s activities added up to the distance of a marathon per person – 26.2miles.

The event included several mental and physical challenges, which saw teams carrying an 8kg bucket up a steep hill, working out how to get their dogs, chickens and grain safely to market, crossing an obstacle course and puzzling the truth from the lies! 

Some of these challenges illustrated CARE’s work, with teams completing activities that represented the challenges that some of the poorest people face every day. While lots of fun was had, they reminded teams where their money will be going, giving tired bodies a bit of extra motivation to keep going! Exhausted teams crossed the finish line, after replenishing with drinks, a well-earned dinner at the evening reception awaited them.

The evening reception was held in Taunton School, and after the delicious meal teams remained to hear speeches and receive awards.  Head of Challenge, Neil Munro, spoke first, thanking everyone for their hard work and enthusiasm, and announcing that the event had raised a superb £24,000 for CARE International.  This will help CARE to continue to respond to emergencies, such as the current flooding in Pakistan, and deliver lasting and long-term support in the poorest communities, for example in Haiti.

New Media Age supported the event, and Publisher Andy Oakes, was presented with a framed CARE photograph. Andy said, 'I thoroughly enjoyed the day and am pleased that the new media sector united to raise vital funds for CARE. The event raised even more funds than last year so all participants should be feeling very proud of their achievement. I am looking forward to next year's challenge already!'

CARE’s Tracy Horner presented CARE’s newest initiative ‘Lend with CARE’, showcasing the use of new media to connect directly with entrepreneurs needing micro loans to set up their small businesses such as shops or market stalls.

The Top Fundraising Award went to SeeSaw IPTV Ltd, ‘Team Brazil’, led by Nathan Hodge, for raising a staggering £3200.   Nathan dedicated their award to fellow team member who couldn’t join them at the dinner but who had single handedly carried their bucket of stones up the hill.

The Fastest Time Award also went to SeeSaw IPTV Ltd, who completed the challenge in an amazing 5h 10min, narrowly beating Bunnyfoot’s ‘Team Market’ who finished in 5h 24 min ComScore Europe ‘Team Urban’ came in third with a time of 6h 6min.  Full results below.

A disco and party followed the speeches, during which teams seemed to call upon untapped resources of energy, dancing  into the early hours!

Enormous thanks go to all the teams who took part - New Media Age, Bunnyfoot, MSO.net, Focus Integrated, ESPN, BT, Skimlinks, ComScore Europe, Seesaw IPTV Ltd and Tribal Fusion. Thanks also go to all their supporters.  A big thank you also to all the volunteers, who gave up their free time to make this event possible.

Team Results Table