Ivan's huge fundraising success at East Riding Leisure Francis Scaife.

Ivan Down, 53, a fitness co-ordinator at East Riding Leisure Francis Scaife in Pocklington, is celebrating after completing his year-long fundraising Challenge 53/53.

The Challenge was a bid both to challenge himself and to raise a large amount of money for charity, and has involved 53 demanding physical challenges in 53 weeks, in his 53rd year, and has raised money for the following charities: Bowel Cancer UK, Stroke Association, Scope, British Lung Foundation and The Army Benevolent Fund.

Here are the amazing statistics of the Challenge :

ran 568.9 miles (35 miles of that carrying loads between 25-53kg),
rode a bike 1343.9 miles,
swam 9.8 miles,
rowed 29.8 miles,
completed 16,968 step ups,
10,000 repetitions with a 10kg kettle bell,
10,000 reps with a 12kg barbell,
2000 sit ups & 1000 press-ups,
228 hours and 18 minutes of exercise completed.

Ivan’s Just Giving page has passed its £5300 target, after a final raffle at East Riding Leisure Francis Scaife, but is still open for donations. In addition, sponsor forms currently take his total close to £6000.

Ivan said : “I would just like to thank everybody who has contributed to this amazing total. It’s been a very tough challenge at times, but well worth it in the end, and I am delighted to be able to pass on so much to these worthy causes.”

Darren Jackson, senior facility manager at East Riding Leisure Francis Scaife, said: “Ivan's effort and commitment was inspirational to both customers and staff.  His desire to raise so much money for charity and good causes has created an incredible feel good factor here at East Riding Leisure Francis Scaife. Well done!”

Ivan is a former physical training instructor in the British Army and set himself the fundraising challenge because he wanted to push himself further after previous charity events.

To contribute, visit Ivan’s Just Giving page : www.justgiving.com/Ivan’s Challenge 53/53.