Over the years, we’ve met countless inspiring fundraisers at Charity Challenge, each driven by a cause close to their heart. This month, we’re proud to share the story of trekking and fundraising superstar and repeat challenger, Emma Baker!
Which Charity Challenges have you done?
My first CoppaTrek! with Gi challenge was the 5-day 100km Pembrokeshire Coastal challenge in 2022. I have taken part in 3 CoppaTrek! with Gi marathon-length challenges in the Peak District, Yorkshire and the Cotswolds – and I’ve also trekked a 1/2 marathon in the South Downs.
What compels you to take on a challenge?
I see first hand the difference the charity makes to people by being a volunteer speaker ambassador for them. CoppaFeel! has changed my life and in turn I have helped change other’s lives by delivering their message! I see the hard work that CoppaFeel! does behind the scenes and the time the charity take to really make a difference. These charity treks are what helps CoppaFeel! continue to save lives, so when I complete a challenge it feels so good to be helping in a small way!
What’s been your favourite Charity Challenge so far?
They’ve all been epic but I will say the Cotswolds I really enjoyed! Camping for the whole weekend and having the full experience was awesome. I love meeting new people and the beauty of the challenges is you can talk to so many different people along the way. Also great to catch up with trekking friends I’ve made over the years and fellow ‘Boobettes’.
How much have you raised overall?
I have raised £5,600 so far. I’m taking part in the CoppaTrek! Alumni – Montenegro challenge in July, and I hope to raise loads more with a target of £3,000!
Any special fundraising tips to share?
Share share and share again! Be seen! Share your page each time you do a workout a walk or post a pic so it’s seen by all. Go big with an event to advertise! When doing raffles, approach businesses and ask for donations of prizes or vouchers. This ups the ante and gets people interested. We all love a freebie!
Any advice to someone thinking of doing their first Charity Challenge?
Be prepared for standing for long periods of time, get your legs walking and ready as soon as you can. The right walking boots will make all the difference to your walk, make sure to break them in weeks before. Get good quality hiking socks too – they’re a little more expensive than you’d usually pay for socks, but the experience will be so much better. Practice with them during training so your feet are the right fit in the boot with the socks! (Check out our blog Taking Care of Your Feet on Challenges for more tips!)
I also wouldn’t trek without walking poles, they’re a go-to if you need support on hills. If you have all the tools, you’ll be good to go! But don’t over think it. As Gi always says, it’s just walking!
What’s next for Emma?
In July 2026, I’m taking on another CoppaTrek! in Montenegro, so I’ll be doing lots of training and fundraising events for that. I also deliver the breast cancer awareness talks for CoppaFeel! and have done 98 talks and stalls since starting in 2022, so I’m hoping this year will have lots more planned. Then maybe later in the year, another trek with CoppaFeel! and Charity Challenge.
You can discover more about Emma’s challenge journey and donate to her fundraising page here.
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