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Rohan, Badminton Champion and Assistant Psychologist at Caudwell Children, took on a colossal fundraising challenge in support of disabled and autistic children. The gruelling Badmintonathon took place at Keele University’s Sports Centre and lasted an incredible 8 hours. 17 challengers took part and could even ask Rohan to do a forfeit if they made a donation to the charity.
Rohan explains why he took on a Badminton challenge for Caudwell Children:
What inspired you to take on a Badminton Challenge?
Charlotte, another member of Caudwell Children’s Clinical Team, came up with the idea as I had previously broken the world’s record for the longest badminton singles match at 25 hours and 32 minutes. We both thought it would be a fun idea to recreate this for Caudwell Children, plus I can never back down from a challenge.
What are some of your achievements in Badminton?
So previously my badminton achievements are definitely breaking the world record, representing England in some international tournaments in Scotland, Wales and Malta, breaking into the top 1000 in the world for men’s doubles, and winning the Geoff Hurst Cup (most dedicated member of the Athletic Union) and Full Colours (Lifelong member of the Athletic Union for those who have represented their country in their chosen sport) in my final year of university at Keele.
What was the best thing about the Challenge?
The best thing about the challenge was the amount of people that volunteered to play against me, it was so nice having a range of people, even up to four at a time to play against and I think people had a lot of fun watching me play in fairy wings and a tutu.
What was the hardest thing about the Challenge?
The hardest thing about the challenge was at the end, my legs started to cramp up very badly and I couldn’t take a step without it happening, so essentially had to play the final hour hardly moving.
What forfeits did you do?
The forfeits that people could choose were: play left-handed, not allowed to move my feet, wear an eye patch, wear fancy dress or hold the racket anywhere but the handle. Some people had two forfeits on the go at a time!
How much money did you raise?
The final total was a £1030.44, a massive thank you to everyone who took part. Also, I want to say a big thank you to Kathryn and Steffi from Caudwell Children’s Events/Challenge Team who kept me going on the day and provided me with much needed drinks and snacks.
Interested in doing your own fundraising challenge in support of Caudwell Children? Find out how to get involved: bit.ly/4bqOMMV