The annual climbing fundraising event held in support of The Institute of Cancer Research, London has broken all previous records by raising £102,210.
The Climb of Life is an annual mountain trek organised by ICR fundraiser Graeme Chapman MBE. This year marks the Climb’s 29th year, though it’s the 10th Climb in support of the ICR. The amount raised by the Climb of Life for the ICR now totals over £800,000.
More than 120 dedicated explorers set out in less than ideal conditions on 4 November 2016 to conquer the mountains and lakes of the Lake District to support our work. And conquer they did!
Founder and organiser Graeme Chapman MBE said: “The Climb of Life has progressed from raising £62,000 in 2007 to this year’s amazing sum of £102,000. I really didn’t think that cracking £100,000 for the third time was a possibility; however, with 34 new trekkers joining us this year, we gave ourselves an extra boost.
"Several of our long-standing friends again received tremendous support. With 70% of our mountain trekkers encountering snow, we can feel our fundraising was truly well-earned.”
'A tough climb but great fun'
The climb was attended by Graeme’s friends, family and industry colleagues, and also this year by six ICR staff – Professor Keith Jones, Dr Irene Chong, Hanna Bryant, Dr Lauren Aronson, Dr Inger Brandsma and Heather Lacey.
This was Professor Jones’ second time at the Climb of Life. The keen mountain climber said: “It’s truly inspiring to see people from different walks of life, but with a shared passion for climbing, coming together to raise money for the ICR.
"The funds raised will help the ICR to carry out its recently announced five-year research strategy.”
Irene, Hanna, Lauren and Inger also added: “We were honoured to be a part of the Climb of Life this year. It was a tough climb, but really great fun. We were spurred on by the support of fellow climbers and Graeme’s team.
"It motivates us to be even more resilient in our research. We are proud of what we have achieved as a team – both the climbing and the funds we raised.”
Get involved
The event was generously supported by business supply industry leaders VOW/EVO Group and Office Products International (OPI), both of whom were given special honours this year after raising over £100,000 each for the ICR over the last 10 years.
The ICR would like to thank Graeme for his support and commitment for organising the event, and also industry sponsors and individuals for their support.
Next year’s Climb, on Friday 3 November 2017, will mark the milestone of the 30th Climb of Life, and the ICR is looking forward to being part of those celebrations.
Inspired to take on a challenge of your own? We have plenty of third-party treks that we would love to welcome you to. You can also email us for more information.