Brighton student takes on 100km South Coast challenge for Cancer Research UK

Rosie will join her good friend Will Lydon for the South Coast Ultra Challenge, tackling around 2,100 metres of elevation along the way. The pair, who are fundraising as Miles for Smiles, have chosen charities close to their hearts – Creative Writing student Rosie is supporting Cancer Research UK, while Brighton-born Will is raising money for Mind.

The pair will set off from Eastbourne at 8am on Saturday 5 September, aiming to reach Brighton before stopping overnight. They’ll be back on the road at around 7am on Sunday 6 September for the final stretch to Arundel, with until 4pm to cross the finish line.

While Rosie is no stranger to walking, she admits she’s a late convert to serious hiking. Until recently, she didn’t even own a pair of walking boots and has tackled long walks in trainers.

She said: “I love walking and hiking, especially because I find it’s so good for your physical and mental wellbeing but 100km is a whole different level. I’m definitely going to have to dig deep!”

For Rosie, Cancer Research UK was an obvious choice for her fundraising. Several close friends have lost parents to cancer.

Rosie Birch

She said: “I’d love to live in a world without cancer. It’s something that has affected so many people I know, and that’s why raising money for Cancer Research UK feels really personal to me.”

Mind is also close to the pair’s hearts. Rosie previously served as Communities Officer at Brighton Students’ Union, where she focused on creating a more inclusive and supportive university community and regularly used Mind’s resources to support students and promote mental wellbeing.

The pair’s biggest concern? Blisters. Rosie has been wearing in her boots, stocking up on hiking socks and planning regular changes along the route. But she has one thing firmly in her sights: the finish line. 

Rosie said: “I think I’ve done as much mental preparation as I can. The rest is going to be physical. I’m just really looking forward to getting to Arundel, celebrating with Will and having that glass of Prosecco!”

Rosie is raising money for Cancer Research UK and you can donate to her fundraiser here.

Will is raising money for Mind and you can donate to his fundraiser here.