Shouksmiths supports the 2009 Polar Race
Claire Shouksmith, daughter of Richard Shouksmith, chairman of building-services company Shouksmiths, is taking part in the 2009 Polar Race to raise funds for the charity Children with Leukaemia. The contribution forms part of the company’s ‘Choose a charity’ scheme, which is funded from pre-tax profits. Employees and their families are encouraged to nominate a charity or seek support for their own fund-raising activities. Since its launch in 2007, over 24 local and national charities have received support.
Described by the organisers as ‘probably the world’s toughest race’, Claire and 16 other competitors started from Resolute Bay in the former North West Territories of Canada at the end of March to trek the 350 miles to the magnet North Pole. 35 days will be spent in the Arctic in total, where the competitors will have to be self sufficient for a week at a time, dragging all their equipment on sleds weighing up to 50 kg.
Her preparation for the race has been intensive, including many sessions over the last 18 months to learn about gun handling, equipment, navigation and what to do if you encounter a polar bear.
To track the progress of the race, go to www.polarrace.com/2009.
