5200 miles in 52 weeks: SSAFA beneficiary, superstar fundraiser taking on year-long challenge

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22 November 2024

Army veteran Gina Allsop came to SSAFA, the Armed Forces charity, after suffering injury and loss in 2020. She has been a key fundraiser and face of SSAFA ever since and is excited for what the next year holds.

Four years ago Gina suffered a hit-and-run accident while cycling that left her injured and her bike smashed. The following day her brother Spencer, terminally ill with cancer, passed away. Hurt, heartbroken and unsure of where to turn, she was encouraged to get in touch with SSAFA, who in turn offered their support and even secured funds for a new cycle. 

Gina was moved and inspired to give back: “I started fundraising for SSAFA as I wanted to repay them for helping me during some of the most difficult times of my life. I have raised hundreds of thousands of pounds now for military charities, but I will not stop being an advocate and raising money for SSAFA. I’m proud to support them.”

Gina has taken part in SSAFA’s 13 Bridges Challenge, the Glasgow Kilt Walk, as well as self-organised challenges like covering 1500 km in 30 days. Since 2021 she has raised more than £250,000 for SSAFA and other charities – and was honoured with the Volunteer of the Year award at the Veteran Awards 2023.

Her newest venture that started on 23 September will be no small feat either – covering 100 miles a week, every week, for the next year. She currently lives in the Wirral Peninsula, but her challenge will take her all over the UK.

Many of the miles will be covered by running, cycling, and other traditional routine exercises – but Gina has mixed in a few extraordinary challenge events to keep things interesting. She recently spent a week with the ACF canoeing in Snowdonia, and even has plans to break a Guinness World Record next summer as part of the challenge!

Gina said this when asked about what the challenge means to her: “I think my biggest message is how the great outdoors can heal the soul. being in nature for me is key to my mental health.

“I would love for people to join me on this challenge. Get in touch with me and let’s go walking and talking. It’s all about connection and it’s for a great cause!”