Trustee Mark Takes on the “150 Challenge” to Celebrate YMCA Northumberland’s 150th Anniversary!

As YMCA Northumberland celebrates an incredible 150 years of supporting young people and communities across Northumberland, one of our dedicated Trustees is taking on an extraordinary challenge to mark the occasion and raise vital funds for our work.

During the Spring Bank Holiday weekend, Trustee Mark undertook his ambitious “150 Challenge”. A gruelling series of physical activities designed to honour each year of YMCA Northumberland’s rich history while raising money to support the next generation of young people.

Over just 48 hours, Mark completed ten separate challenges, each based around the number 150:

* 150km of cycling

* 150 lengths of swimming (3.75km)

* 150 minutes of running (approximately 15 miles)

* 150 floors on the stair machine

* 150 press-ups

* 150 sit-ups

* 150 burpees

* 150 squats

* 150 lunges

* 150 star jumps

And if that wasn’t enough, Mark has also signed up to run the Great North Run later this year, a decade after his last attempt.

Speaking about the challenge, Mark said:

“YMCA Northumberland is celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, and I wanted to do something special to recognise this incredible milestone. As a Trustee, I have the privilege of seeing firsthand the amazing work the charity delivers and the positive impact it has on young people and families across our communities.”

“It’s a difficult time to be young right now, and we’re seeing more and more people in need of the support YMCA Northumberland can offer. The organisation’s grassroots youth programmes help young people build confidence, develop skills, and reach their true potential. I wanted to challenge myself while raising awareness and funds to support this important work.”

Mark is aiming to raise £1,500 through the challenge, £10 for every year that YMCA Northumberland has been serving local communities.

The funds raised will help us continue delivering life-changing programmes, activities, and support services for children and young people across Northumberland, ensuring that future generations can benefit from the same opportunities, encouragement, and sense of belonging that YMCA Northumberland has provided since 1876.

Everyone at YMCA Northumberland would like to thank Mark for his commitment, determination, and support. Taking on ten challenges in just 48 hours is no small feat, but it reflects the passion and dedication that our trustees bring to the organisation.

As we celebrate 150 years of empowering young people, we’re proud to have champions like Mark helping us raise awareness of our work and invest in the future of our communities.