Belgravia Support OxFam Trailwalker Challenge and Swim 4 Autism Event

09-06-2010

Belgravia Staff practice what they preach.  Monbulk Aquatic Centre and The Yarra Centre (both in the Yarra Ranges Shire, Victoria) have some champions in their midst.  Les Hedger and Leslie Grimmes have once again endured the OxFam Trailwalker challenge.  
Les is the gym team leader at Monbulk, and Leslie is the gym team leader at The Yarra Centre.  In their respective two teams they have trained the long hard hours to not only walk the 100K but run!  In the 8 years the race has been held both teams have been in six races.  Leslie’s all girl team have won 3 times.  Les has come as high as 7th.  This is competing against over 700 other teams.  
Winning isn’t necessarily all about coming first.  These two teams have supported each other through injury and have put their drive to be first, second to supporting both their own team members and the members of the other team, who have at times become injured or sick whilst competing.
We are so lucky to have employees such as these, who have a passion which they can fulfil not only in their recreation time but in their workplace as well.  When you have drive to be fit healthy and strong you are definitely the right people to work in the fitness/recreation industry where you are able to inspire and lead through personal example.
Well done Les and Leslie!

Meanwhile, The Swim 4 Autism was hosted by Belgravia Leisure at The Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool at the end of their season. The event began at first light and saw 40 registered swimmers participate with the final swimmers completing the full 5 hour challenge at 12.00 noon. 
The swim was designed to raise funds and awareness for Autism, in particular raising funds for the Giant Steps School in Gladesville, NSW. 
“Giant Steps has a multifaceted approach to the provision of services to children with autism and their families, whilst spreading a culture of caring and professional excellence through the broader community. Our school provides a trans-disciplinary approach to education combining music, occupational and speech therapy delivered across the programs. We also offer professional skill development for staff and other health professionals.” http://www.giantsteps.net.au/
A number of prizes and giveaways were distributed throughout the day including ‘The Carlos Cup’ (named after Kevin Stevens - co event organiser’s son Carlos, who was diagnosed with Autism) which was won by Shaun Sae-Lieo who managed to complete 12.5km during the 5 hour period. A number of swimmers achieved at least 5km each and the event was open to anyone who wanted to participate.

This was a successful event sponsored by Belgravia Leisure, Zoggs, Exercise Sydney and a number of small businesses around Sydney. Donations are still making their way in with total raised at the end of the event standing at $37,500.

< Back to latest news