Following the 10k Challenge held in April 2015, the sponsored skydive component of this year’s BAPS Charities Challenge began on Sunday 14 June 2015 where 31 brave challengers took to the skies in Nottingham and Reading to raise valuable funds for a variety of worthy causes.
The official partner for BAPS Charities this year is the British Heart Foundation, the nation’s largest independent funder of cardiovascular research. The Challenge is also raising funds for Rosa, a charitable fund set up to support initiatives that benefit women and girls in the UK.
The annual challenge has evolved since its inception over 20 years ago. A variety of physical feats are available this year including the tandem skydive – which will continue at various locations in the UK throughout June and July.
More than 100 participants – from 18-year-olds to those approaching 60 – have stepped up for this challenge.
The preparation for the event on 14 June began at the respective sites from 8.30am. Jumpers arrived in high spirits and attended a short training course before boarding their aircraft, which transported them more than 10,000 feet into the air.
The dives were completed smoothly and participants shared their excitement after landing. One of the jumpers, Mukesh Dalia, aged 55, said: “It was very exciting. I was nervous as the plane was rising, but the thought of doing something positive for those who need our support helped me overcome my fears.”
Dr Mayank Shah of BAPS Charities added: “We’re delighted to widen the scope of our Annual Challenge and maximise the opportunity to help our partners. The strength of character from those who participated demonstrates how eager so many people are in supporting worthwhile causes.”
To learn more about the work of the British Heart Foundation and Rosa, please follow the respective links.
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