Posted by Callum Vallance-Poole, on January 8, 2025.
January may be cold and dark, but we’re bringing warmth and light with an epic adventure for an extraordinary cause. This January, the Great GRAF UK Triathlon 2025 will challenge us to go the distance – literally – to raise vital funds for Katharine House Hospice. Together, we’ll embrace the season of giving, inspire camaraderie, and turn the gloom of winter into a celebration of community, charity, and determination.
The Challenge: Glasgow to Banbury in Five Days
Our bold journey begins on Monday, 20th January 2025 and concludes on Friday, 24th January 2025, covering three intense stages across 400+ miles. Here’s what lies ahead:
Stage 1: The Run
Distance: Half Marathon
Route Highlights: We kick off from Glasgow Green on the picturesque River Clyde, following the Clyde Walkway through a mix of urban and rural scenery. Along the way, runners will pass iconic landmarks such as the Kingston Bridge and historic dockyards, finishing at the home of renowned explorer David Livingstone in Bothwell.
Stage 2: The Bike
Distance: 380 miles over 4 days
Route Highlights: Cyclists will traverse the breathtaking countryside, stopping at key locations:
- Day 1: Glasgow to Lockerbie (65 miles)
- Day 2: Lockerbie to Ingleton (97 miles)
- Day 3: Ingleton to Old Trafford (63 miles)
- Day 4: Old Trafford to Solihull (100 miles)
- Day 5: Solihull to Cropredy (42 miles)
The final stretch brings us to Cropredy by late morning, ready for the final stage
Stage 3: The Kayak
Distance: 6km
Route Highlights: Paddling along the Oxford Canal, participants will make their way into the heart of Banbury, culminating at Spiceball Country Park. A dedicated footpath runs alongside the canal, so supporters can join us for the final push to the finish line.
Celebrate the Grand Finale
Close to Spiceball Country Park, in Lock29 at Castle Quay Shopping Centre, we’ll host a celebratory finish-line party – a moment to reflect on our shared achievement, thank our supporters, and hand over the funds raised to Katharine House Hospice.
How You Can Get Involved
This event is about more than the athletes – it’s a chance for everyone to contribute. Whether you’re a business, a supporter, or a participant, there are plenty of ways to join in.
Sponsorship Opportunities
From headlining the event to creative mile sponsorships, we’ve tailored packages to suit all budgets. For example:
- Main Event Sponsor (£2,000): Premium logo placement, mentions across all media, and an invitation to participate. NOW GONE… thanks to Honesberie Shooting School for confirming their support as Main Event Sponsor!
- Support Vehicle Sponsor (£1,000): Branding on all vehicles and stage-specific promotion. NOW GONE… thanks to Geosynthetic Technology Ltd & Sytner Land Rover Coventry for confirming their support as our two Support Vehicle Sponsors!
- Athlete Sponsors (£600): Have your Brand be represented by one of our athletes going the distance from Glasgow to Banbury.
- Good Luck Sponsor (£100): Send your personalised message to inspire participants.
Find all sponsorship details in our flyer and make a lasting impact!
Join the Journey
Walk, cheer, or sponsor – your participation matters:
- Cheer us on: Join us along the route, especially during the kayak stage.
- Fundraise: Set up your own fundraiser linked to our JustGiving page.
- Volunteer: Help with logistics, support vehicles, or event organisation.
Why We Do This
Katharine House Hospice provides essential care for those facing life-limiting illnesses. By taking part in the Great GRAF UK Triathlon, we’re not just raising funds – we’re supporting dignity, compassion, and hope. Together, we aim to surpass our goal of £20,000 and make January 2025 a month to remember.
Get Started Today!
Whether you want to sponsor, participate, or simply support, we’d love to hear from you. For sponsorship enquiries, email callum@grafuk.co.uk or visit grafuk.co.uk.
Let’s make this an unforgettable adventure for an incredible cause. Together, we can beat the January blues and brighten countless lives!