Around the World for JTYAF was a month-long virtual challenge, organised by the Air Cadet Junior Leaders in support of the John Thornton Young Achievers Foundation which raised an incredible £24,000! The challenge ran from 1st to 28th February inviting teams and individuals to collectively run, walk, cycle, and swim 40,075 Km to take them virtually around the world. No one could have imagined that the target distance would be smashed with a week to go and a total of 59,095 Kms completed.

Over 250 people ran, walked, cycled and even weight lifted, to ensure that the distance was achieved. Emma, (pictured above) was a member of the Junior Leaders Course in 2016. She not only helped to organise the challenge but also took part, cycling and running 1271.63 Km and raising £628! Air Cadet Junior Leaders and Directing Staff, from courses spanning 20 years signed up for the challenge together with individuals from all walks of life. John’s old school, Parley First School, entered a team and covered over 3,500 Km raising more than £1000, other entries included 40 Commando Royal Marines, cycling clubs, JTYAF charity trustees and many more. The kindness and generosity of the friends and family who supported the participants has been overwhelming.

The JTYAF has a very special relationship with the Air Cadet Junior Leaders Course but could never have expected this level of support. The Junior Leaders put an incredible amount of time and effort into organising this event and the success it achieved is testament to the professionalism and dedication of the team behind it.

£24,000 will make a huge difference to the opportunities that John’s foundation will be able to provide for young people in the year ahead

Pete Thornton, Chair of the JTYAF, commented, “We are totally overwhelmed by this fantastic support as John would be too, and we can’t thank everyone involved enough. Every penny raised by this challenge will ensure that his legacy lives on, helping young people to achieve their ambitions.”

To find out more about the challenge visit https://around-the-world-for-jtyaf.raisely.com/