MAN v FAT Carlisle member Andrew Trickett is ready to tackle the problem of a lifetime later this yr, as he heads to the Himalayas to boost cash for charity.
Andrew has been a member of our neighborhood for the reason that finish of 2023 and, having rekindled his love for the game of soccer, he’s now going to be taking over a problem that can see him protecting over 20km a day to boost cash for Disaster UK.
We caught up with him to search out out extra as preparations proceed for this big expedition.
Speak to us about your MAN v FAT expertise – why did you be a part of within the first place? And the way has it helped together with your bodily and psychological wellbeing?
I joined MAN v FAT at a degree the place I knew one thing needed to change. I’d reached my heaviest weight, and for the primary time in my life I discovered myself struggling to stroll the Lake District fells — one thing that had at all times been an enormous a part of who I’m.
MAN v FAT felt like a special, extra partaking solution to attempt to shed some pounds, and it provided a construction and neighborhood that I knew I wanted.
Since becoming a member of, I’ve been in a position to reclaim my love of soccer. I now play MAN v FAT all yr spherical, and in the course of the winter months I additionally play 5 a aspect with my cricket teammates.
Cricket is my foremost sport, and that’s the place I’ve seen the largest transformation. I’m fitter, stronger and extra assured than I’ve been in a decade, and it’s allowed me to play my greatest cricket in years.
The psychological impression has been simply as important. There’s an actual sense of pleasure and confidence that comes from with the ability to put on garments that had been hidden behind the cabinet for ten years, or from with the ability to stroll right into a excessive avenue store and purchase one thing off the rack once more.
I began this journey at 147.2kg; the lightest I’ve reached is 102kg. I’ve had a small improve not too long ago, however my objective is to be beneath 100kg by the point I tackle my problem in November.
The membership has undertaken some unbelievable fundraising efforts over latest years. Have been they a part of your inspiration for this problem and what are you able to inform us concerning the neighborhood within the membership?
I didn’t participate within the membership’s 48 mile problem myself — I had different commitments that weekend — however I supported the fundraising and watched on in absolute amazement.
What the blokes achieved was inspiring. Their perseverance, dedication and resilience have been unbelievable to witness, and you possibly can undoubtedly say that their instance performed an element in motivating me to take by myself problem.
That’s the factor concerning the MAN v FAT neighborhood: it’s supportive, pushed and full of people that genuinely wish to see one another succeed. Whether or not it’s weight reduction, health, soccer or fundraising, there’s an actual sense of togetherness. Being a part of that setting makes you wish to push your self additional.
Why did you select Disaster UK and the way have your preparations been going to this point?
I’m taking over this problem by my employer, Lloyds Banking Group. Every year the Financial institution companions with its charity of the yr to run a signature problem — a chance for colleagues to push themselves bodily and mentally whereas elevating very important funds.
This yr, the problem is a 5 day trek within the Indian Himalayas. We’ll be trekking round 20km a day at altitudes of roughly 2,500–3,000ft. The Financial institution absolutely funds the journey, which implies each penny raised goes on to Disaster UK.
Disaster is a charity which means loads to me. I’ve lived a really privileged life — I’ve by no means needed to fear about the place I or my youngsters will sleep at evening. However too many households face that worry each single day. Homelessness, and even the specter of it, has big penalties. It impacts bodily well being, psychological wellbeing, schooling, social mobility—all the things.
Supporting Disaster is a method of serving to folks rebuild stability, dignity and hope.
By way of preparation, MAN v FAT has given me the health basis I wanted, however I’m additionally extremely fortunate to have the Lake District proper on my doorstep. Away from soccer, the fells have turn into my coaching floor.
In latest weeks I’ve been out strolling and ticking off extra Wainwrights, together with Barrow Fell, Glenridding Dodd, Little Mell Fell and even Skiddaw. Every climb has helped construct my stamina, confidence and psychological resilience — precisely what I’ll want for lengthy days of trekking at altitude.
The problem can be powerful, however understanding the impression the fundraising could have makes each step price it.
Wish to sponsor Andrew’s efforts?
Andrew heads off to the Himalaya’s later this yr – you possibly can sponsor his fundraising by visiting his JustGiving web page!
