I was originally planning this month to be a Guinness world record attempt for the longest distance traveled by space hopper in 24 hours. But with no access to a measured running track and days of the month running out, I decided to adapt the challenge slightly and try and commute to work on my space hopper instead.
I have one challenge left (I'm playing carols on my trumpet at the School of Chemistry's christmas event next week!) and then will round the year off as I started, by swimming in the sea off Scotland on New Years Day.
www.justgiving.com/RADCC2015
So, on a cold, damp Monday morning, I pumped up the space hopper and set off with my charity box. By the end of my road the muscles in my bum were on fire, and I was already regretting my bowl of porridge... But as I crossed the zebra crossing and Kate caught up with me, I realised I would actually be able to do it!
Any sort of an uphill incline was tough, and we did have to stop a few times for me to catch my breath, and also recover from a few bouts of uncontrollable giggles. A few people stopped and put some money in my collection pot, but it was surprising to both of us how few people even did a double take!
After 2 kilometres, and almost an hour, I made it to "Old Joe" - the clock tower in the centre of the university. Kate took some photos and then I proudly stood up. And sat straight back down again! My legs were like jelly and I was slightly concerned space hopper might have to become my permanent mode of transport, as walking didn't seem to be happening...
So I hopped to the Chemistry department and uploaded all the photos and video (watch it here) - and caught the eye of the Birmingham Mail, who called me up to do an interview, and sent a photographer along to get some more photos. You can see the article here.
I have one challenge left (I'm playing carols on my trumpet at the School of Chemistry's christmas event next week!) and then will round the year off as I started, by swimming in the sea off Scotland on New Years Day.
www.justgiving.com/RADCC2015