[T]aking on a challenge of a lifetime, Caroline Johnson and Sarah Batty, who both work at Oak Tree Animals’ Charity, are heading to the Arctic in March to raise money to help the animals at Oak Tree Animals’ Charity. Funding the cost element of the adventure themselves, their charity challenge is to sled 260km from Norway, into Sweden through rolling highlands and deep forests, in order to finish at the world famous Ice Hotel in Jukkasjarvi!
Camping in temperatures as low as -20oC, Sarah and Caroline, while under the supervision of challenge organisers, will not only be sledding up to 75km per day across the Arctic but also looking after their husky team, erecting tents, camp cooking and fulfilling all camping duties with the equipment provided, a true, hands on wilderness challenge!
Sarah, who is Oak Tree’s Fundraising and Communications Manager, said “We decided to do this challenge to really put our money where our mouth is! We have amazing supporters who do so much for our charity including abseiling, skydiving, running and taking part in our Dogstable, it is our turn as ‘Team Oak Tree’ to take on a fundraising adventure. We are hoping to raise over £2000 to help animals in need in our region.”
Caroline, General Manager at Oak Tree explained “We are really excited, although slightly nervous, about our adventure. When deciding to do this challenge, for us the dogs’ welfare is paramount and we did a lot of research into the company we are going to make sure this was not going to be an issue. At Oak Tree we see a number of Huskies and Husky crosses every year who are needing to be relinquished as they have complex needs that can not often be met in a typical family home, this is a real opportunity to show the breed at their best.”
“Part of the challenge has been making sure that our fitness levels are such that we are able to complete and we have been working towards this for the past 12 months. The next month will see us increasing this training further and continuing to scour the fabulous array of outdoor kit shops in our area to make sure we have the equipment we need to complete this challenge.”
To support Caroline and Sarah in their ‘Team Oak Tree Husky Challenge’ please search for ‘Team Oak Tree Husky Challenge’ on the Oak Tree Virgin Money Giving page, or head to www.oaktreeanimals.org.uk and look at the Latest News section where you will find a link to their fundraising page. Alternatively you can call 01228 560082.
