Ashley aims for Arusha with hat-trick of challenges
A former New College Stamford student and Market Deeping resident is attempting to raise funds for a trip to Tanzania as part of his undergraduate degree by undertaking a hat-trick of challenges.
Ashley Bond, a second year BSc (Honours) Sport Development with Coaching student at Sheffield Hallam University, plans to travel to Arusha from May to June for the once in a lifetime opportunity.
"I am one of seven students who have been successfully selected out of the whole of Sheffield Hallam University's Academy of Sport and Physical Activity sector to be granted this opportunity," said Ashley.
"I will be living with a host family and learning the East African culture while making a positive difference to the lives of young people and families who are less fortunate than ourselves through the power of sport with the view of leaving a legacy behind."
Ashley will work with peer leaders, volunteers and staff from local organisations in Arusha and surrounding areas.
"I will be responsible for co-coaching, training, assisting in school and after school sporting activities as well as delivering training workshops with local leaders," he said.
"During my time in Arusha I will also be involved with sports leadership and coaching in local clubs and community settings, working with local teachers, coaches and peer leaders.
"Another part of my work placement will be participating in the preparations for the East Africa Cup with local junior football teams."
The total cost of the trip is between £2,500 and £3,500 and Ashley has set himself the goal of raising £1,500.
To do that he has set himself "a hat-trick of challenges".
"I will not drink alcohol throughout the whole month of February and if you know me you'll know how tough this one is," he said.
His second goal is to climb Sheffield's very own Mount Kilimanjaro.
"Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa and High Stones, which is found in the Peak District, is the highest point in the Sheffield and South Yorkshire region.
"So with this in mind I will be conquering Sheffield's highest point on March 2 as it's Sheffield's answer to Kilimanjaro."
Ashley said his hat-trick goal was to successfully finish the Sheffield Half Marathon.
"Never in my life have I ran continuously for 13.1 miles but on April 14 I'll be giving it my best shot following an intense training regime.
"As if my third and final hat-trick goal wasn't gruelling enough I have also decided that I will complete the race in fancy dress, a cheer leaders outfit of course, so watch out for that."
He said the £1,500 would help cover flights, accommodation, living expenses, insurance and vaccination's.
To help Ashley, visit his Go Fund Me site at Ashley's hat-trick for Arusha (Tanzania)