The Bakers Coastal Crusade

by | Oct 29, 2024 | News, wellbeing | 0 comments

Start at Bakers

What a weekend

This year, 24 of the team took on the 26-mile trek from Eastbourne to Brighton. We had our usual contenders, who seem drawn to wild adventures like the Yorkshire 3 peaks and National 3 Peaks as well as new participants, looking to push themselves to new limits. This was more than just a physical challenge; it was a mental test that showcased the power of teamwork in crossing the finish line. There were moments when making it to the next checkpoint felt impossible, but together, with a few packs of sweets for motivation, we carried each other (not literally) the rest of the way.

Minibus selfie with the 1st group

On route to Eastbourne

Kirsty checking us in with the Durst clipboard

Kirsty checking us in

Making our way downtown

After work on Friday, we set off to Eastbourne, our first destination . The team enjoyed a pre-event dinner, before our early start the next morning. Some of us were too excited to sleep and headed out for a spontaneous dance warm-up (thanks to a live band) before the big day.

Our first sunset in Eastbourne

Our first sunset of the weekend

One of the teams at dinner

Team dinner

Rise and shine campers

Early Saturday morning, we gathered for breakfast, fuelling up on carbs before heading to Eastbourne Pier for an 8 a.m. start. The first half of the challenge treated us to breathtaking views (especially the Seven Sisters), sheep, wild horses, and some incredibly steep hills. At points, it was easier to roll down than walk, which Dan and Liv happily demonstrated. As we passed through the initial checkpoints where our support crew were waiting, we encountered blisters, sore legs, and a few painkillers—but we powered through together.

The start of the journey from Eastbourne

Start at Eastbourne Pier

Picture of the cliffs

Our lovely views

Woah we’re halfway there

Nothing has ever tasted as good as those life-saving Seaford sandwiches! We regrouped and rested at Seaford, re-energizing ourselves for the flatter second half of the challenge.
Sandwich stop

Sandwich stop in Seaford

Halfway regroup picture

Halfway regroup

Teamwork make these dream work

At one point, we found ourselves walking through an industrial estate, waiting (what felt like forever) for the train line barriers to lift. But soon enough, we were back on the scenic coastal path. The day wrapped up with a stunning sunset, a well-deserved round of prosecco and beers, and a big team photo at Brighton Pier. Later, we headed back to our hotel in Brighton to share laughs and unforgettable moments over dinner and drinks.
Final picture in Brighton

Finishers at Brighton Pier

The final dinner

The team's final dinner

Reflections on the weekend

For me, completing a marathon—whether walking or running—was never on my bucket list, but I’m so glad I did it. With people from different departments, some of us had only ever exchanged a quick hello in meetings; yet this challenge brought us together in a way I never expected. Throughout the day, I walked alongside different teammates, getting to know them on a personal level—a bonding experience that might not have happened otherwise.

There’s no sugarcoating here: there were times I wanted to call it quits. But being surrounded by such a motivated, supportive team kept me going. I think this might be the highlight of 2024 for me. If someone had told me at the beginning of the year that I would not only sign up for this challenge but finish it, I would have laughed. This experience has instilled in me a newfound sense of achievement and inspired me to continue challenging myself both mentally and physically. I guess it’s time to start training for next year!

Wellbeing at Work

This challenge is one of many social events we hold annually at Bakers. If you’d like to take on the challenge, have a look at our Careers page to be part of the team.
Careers Page