Saturday, 22 October 2011

Always going the EXTRA MILE - Vane Recruitment 100 Mile Challenge {Heroes Day}


A cold dark morning awaited us outside, but the immense anticipation for HEROES DAY meant that the crisp cold weather was a welcome addition.

Upon arrival at the office I was greeted by a glowing Steve who had taken up the challenge of the early shift; the fire starter!

Our Finance Manager Steve chose to show his admiration for the Gurkha, their uniform was his choice of outfit for HEROES DAY.

The first lady to step up to the mark was Kerry; dressed in naval attire Kerry soon took the challenge in her stride. Small beads of perspiration graced her brow but she ran with a huge smile her whole distance.

The rush hour traffic was steadily building up in Commercial Road outside of VANE. The location of our office meant that we could maximise exposure to the new event and worthwhile cause. Red and blue Help for Heroes banners, bunting and balloons greeted visitors to the city and daily commuters.


Staff were gradually arriving in an array of heroes costumes; Batwoman, Kick Ass, Mark Cavendish, Bruce-Lee, Zorro.

The fridge was fully stocked with energy drinks and energy bars, the 100 MILE CHALLENGE was going to be accomplished - Vane meant business!

 A quick dash from his office across the city - client Stuart Bettey of Printware added an addition to the mileage.

The relay began to take place, smooth transitions between consultants meant that no amount of precious time was wasted!

Lots of hilarious banter and mimicking of hero characters. Needless to say there was minimal work being conducted; apart from Laura in the corner catching up on the past week and Fran trying to conduct interviews.

'Cavendish' fresh from his recent World Championship victory adjusted the saddle and placed his towel on the handle bars. Patrick pedalled, pedalled and pedalled further until he was exhausted.

Commercial Consultant Kerry's husband Ant James - currently serving in the Royal Navy contributed to the 100 MILE CHALLENGE mileage. Ant who came along to support Kerry took his place on the treadmill and took his steady pace in his stride.

A visit from Jo Nimmo of The Portsmouth News meant that everyone had to briefly step outside into the cold for photographs. The cool winter air cooling their glowing cheeks.

Bruce-Lee took to the treadmill on numerous occasions throughout the day. Running in martial arts slippers is no easy feat.

Temporary employee Lukasz Makosa hopped on the bike whilst at VANE with a work enquiry and clocked up a few miles before returning to lectures at Uni later that day.

A great team effort from Real Military Fitness - Danny & Locky. Side by side on the bike and treadmill. Cool, calm and collected - they've obviously done this before!!  Their visit motivated the VANE team....

Mr 'Kick Ass' Edyvane made a transition from his bright green outfit into a more athletic black Lycra number before limbering up. Alvin who runs along Southsea seafront on a daily basis was not fazed by what lied ahead. The distance was not an issue; his personal challenge as set by local client Paul Thomas, Market Makers Managing Director was to run a 5 minute mile.

The increase speed button was pushed and pushed until it reached it's maximum. Alvin got faster and faster, but it wasn't to happen, not that day, and not on that treadmill. The speed would not increase fast enough to allow that pace. Alvin not to be beaten has said he will continue this challenge on another machine in the near future - keep your ears open for an update!!

Lots of sweat, dedication, giggles, energy drinks and miles - 10 hours later the 100 MILE CHALLENGE target was SMASHED!  166 miles on the bike and 73.2 miles on treadmill. A HUGE team effort and proud moment.

The entire days events were being streamed live via social media Twitter and Facebook therefore clients, candidates, family and friends could follow the progress.



 If you would like to kindly donate towards our Help for Heroes fund please follow the link!


http://www.bmycharity.com/VaneRecruitment

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