A total of 716 participants took part in this year’s Med Steps 5 Challenge, smashing attendance records from previous editions. Now in its 11th year, the event raised both funds and awareness for Cancer Relief. Just how much, we will know in coming days.

On Thursday, the last day of registration at our office, three members of our staff were flat out on last minute registrations. On the day, participants walked or ran the Mediterranean Steps, with many targeting three circuits and more dedicated fitness enthusiasts completing five. Despite the course’s difficulty, rising to O’Hara’s Battery at 419m above sea level, people of all ages and fitness levels joined in. The oldest participant, 87-year-old Bitesize reader Kenneth Johnson, completed two laps. The youngest, one-year-old (and future Bitesize reader) Cory, did his laps strapped to his father’s back.

Cancer Relief described the support as “absolutely incredible”. We agree. Once again, Mark Cooper and his HM Prison team managed the event perfectly. MD Paul Duck said "We are so pleased to have contributed to the success of this year's Challenge, to promote the event, manage registrations and to help Mark deliver a new record. It's an honour to help our community and Gibraltar Cancer Relief's essential Support." 

This year’s Med Steps 5 Challenge was further supported by the Chestertons International Foundation, which generously donated £1,000 towards the event. The Foundation, established in 2019 by Chestertons’ Chairman Salah Mussa, aims to address poverty and improve social mobility around the world. While its early initiatives focused on the UK, the Foundation has since expanded its global mission in line with Chestertons’ international growth. Coordinator Laura Neufeld expressed the Foundation’s admiration for Chestertons Gibraltar’s commitment to community causes and said they were thrilled to have been able to support such a great cause.  

Thank you to all who took part or donated. We will be back next year to set a new record.