Ben launches F1-inspired virtual challenge

Automotive industry charity Ben is launching its first-ever series of virtual challenges as part of its Bring It On 4 Ben campaign.

The first of the charity’s challenges to run this year, Formula Ben Silverstone VGP, starts on 2 August and is inspired by the Formula 1 British Grand Prix at Silverstone.

After the recent uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the Formula Ben Silverstone VGP will help automotive people get back on track and fund vital support, which is needed now more than ever in the wake of the cancellation of the charity’s annual Ben Ball.

To take part, each participant must complete the 190-miles length of the GP by exercising in their own way. Participants choose how they complete the challenge, for example by walking, cycling, running, swimming, or even playing basketball, wrestling or trampolining – or a combination of exercises.

There is a whole list of activities to choose from on the Formula Ben Silverstone VGP web page.

Participants have eight weeks to complete the challenge which ends on 30 September. Those taking part will also be able to see their location on the Silverstone circuit and track their progress as they complete the 52 virtual laps of the British GP.

Registration costs £15 per person and each participant will receive a Ben T-shirt. On registration, participants can download an app, link to their fitness tracking device and join the leader board.

As well as raising vital funds to support automotive people, the Formula Ben Silverstone VGP also aims to help people improve their physical and mental health and well-being during this challenging time. In addition, taking part in the challenge offers people the opportunity to connect with others in the industry.

As a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, a number of Ben’s fundraising initiatives have been cancelled, including the Ben Ball, leaving the charity with an anticipated £1m income shortfall this year.

This new approach to fundraising is Ben’s way of adapting to the situation, with more virtual fundraising events expected to take place throughout 2020.

Matt Wigginton, Fundraising Director at Ben, said: “The whole team at Ben are incredibly excited to announce our new series of virtual fundraising events. In the current landscape, we had to adapt quickly and come up with new ways of fundraising because mass participation events can’t physically take place right now.”