Colchester team gets stuck in for Race for Life 'Pretty Muddy®'   

On Sunday 19 July, a team of colleagues from Affinia’s Colchester office came together to take on Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life Pretty Muddy® 5k, raising vital funds for life-saving cancer research while tackling a course packed with mud, obstacles and plenty of team spirit.

Pretty Muddy® is much more than a traditional 5k event. Designed to be accessible to people of all fitness levels, the challenge combines a 5-kilometre route with a series of muddy, physical and often unpredictable obstacles along the way. Participants are encouraged to take the course at their own pace, whether that means running, walking, climbing, crawling or sliding their way to the finish line.

Taking on the challenge together

The team faced a demanding course that tested both stamina and determination. From scrambling over obstacles to navigating muddy terrain, every challenge required teamwork, resilience, and plenty of encouragement from fellow participants.

What made the day particularly special was the way the team pulled together throughout the event. Colleagues supported one another at every stage, helping each other over obstacles, offering encouragement when the course became more challenging and celebrating each milestone together.

An incredible fundraising achievement

Their efforts extended far beyond race day. Thanks to the generosity of friends, family, colleagues and supporters, the team has raised an incredible £2,100+, exceeding their original fundraising target by 301%. Alongside this, supporters have contributed more than £450 in Gift Aid, further increasing the overall impact of the fundraising effort.

Supporting life-saving research 

Cancer Research UK is one of the world’s leading cancer research organisations, funding groundbreaking work that helps improve the prevention, detection and treatment of cancer. Through the support of fundraisers and donors, the charity invests in scientists, clinicians and healthcare professionals working to accelerate progress and bring effective treatments to patients sooner.

Every advancement in cancer research relies on funding, with public donations playing a crucial role in helping the charity continue its work. As well as supporting research, Cancer Research UK also provides trusted information and guidance to people affected by cancer across the UK.

A huge congratulations to everyone who took part and thank you to all those who have supported the team along the way. The determination, teamwork and positivity shown by the group throughout the challenge was inspiring to see, and the incredible fundraising total is a testament to the generosity of everyone who got behind the cause.