As November draws to a close, it is time to take a look back at the highlights from yet another successful Movember campaign at the University of Exeter.
Since its formation in 2003, the Movember Foundation has been striving to change the face of men’s health, targeting three key areas: mental health and suicide prevention, prostate cancer and testicular areas. Be it growing a ‘mo’, tackling physically demanding activities or selling cakes at the forum, Exeter students have been fundraising tirelessly to support the Movember cause.
At the time of writing, £82,723.09 has been raised, the second most of any UK university. A massive shoutout must be given to the hockey and football clubs, who have raised over £12,000 each! From the University of Exeter Association Football Club, Josh Bailey has raised over £800 individually. He tackled an astonishing 12-hour hill climb of Forum Hill, walking 68km in wet conditions – an incredible display of endurance and determination.
At the time of writing, £82,723.09 has been raised, the second most of any UK university.
Many clubs have participated in the ‘Brave the Shave’ initiative with members shaving their hair to raise awareness. On the 6th November, the Nova Rose Barbers came to the Movember stall in the Forum to support those wishing to partake. There has also been a big focus on the ‘Move for Mental Health’, with clubs completing their own interpretation. The Movember Foundation encourages us to run or walk 60km in as many takes as desired over the month in memory of the 60 men lost to suicide globally, ever hour. Students have gone above and beyond. To name a few, the Swim and Athletics clubs have organised half marathons, the Triathlon Club held a 24-hour triathlon relay, Golf collectively cycled the distance from Dawlish Warren to St. Andrews, Rugby League completed a 24-hour run, Climbing accomplished their Everest challenge, and Cycling endured a 330km ride to London, passing through seven counties and climbing 2,500 metres. Lacrosse even hitchhiked their way to Cardiff!
Amid multiple charity bake sales, socials, football matches and pub quizzes, many clubs have used their passion for their sport by creating fundraising challenges and events surrounding it. For example, the Golf Club played 72 holes (4 rounds) on the 6th of the month. Taking nine hours and forty-five minutes, the first tee-shot was hit little before 7am, later finishing on the final green with the sun setting. A big thank you must be given to the Warren Golf Club for hosting and congratulations to Golf Club Captain Archie James, Vice-Captain Robert Muir and their caddies Joey Gemmell and Jack Reilly.
Movember also saw the return of the Athletics Club’s MOlympics. Teams gathered on the 17th to battle out classic events such as the egg and spoon relay race, three-legged race and tug of war. Participating in the MOlympics were teams from the Squash, American Football, Women’s Basketball and Snowsports clubs, as well as inevitable champions and hosts Athletics. With fancy dress and a lot of fun, this is not an event to be missed when it returns for 2024.
In addition, the 22nd of the month was the date for the ‘Ultimate Swim Off’, held at St Sidwell Point. Including the Swim, Water Polo, Surf, Windriders, Canoe and Triathlon clubs, the event included a mixture of both serious and fun 50-metre races and relays. With post-race interviews, music and even a commentator, the swim off was of course followed by a joint social before heading to Timepiece. What better way to celebrate? Congratulations to all involved!
In terms of individuals, some of the university’s top fundraisers include Ben Grenier, Sam Tait, Bodhi Van Der Linden, Josh Banks, Josh Bailey and James Woodmore. At the start of the month, James Woodmore braved the shave and has since been running 60km every week. He has raised over £1,000. Speaking to him, he revealed his Movember motivation. “Earlier this year, one of my best friends unfortunately lost his father to cholangiocarcinoma, a cancer of the bile duct. Luke was a true fighter and never failed to light up a room. He has been on my shoulder every step of the way.”
Image: James Woodmore
James also acknowledged the importance of physical exercise in maintaining good mental health. “Mental health is one of the biggest killers among men in today’s society and running is a way in which anyone can achieve a little win when times get tough. Running certainly saved my life and gave me a reason to smile.”
If you are yet to get involved, do not worry! There’s still plenty of time with events running until the end of the month. The Big Dip at Exmouth Beach even takes place on the 3rd December! No matter how big or small the contribution, it all goes a long way in helping to change the face of men’s health.
This has been another incredible effort by all involved.
If you are looking for something to do on the 30th November, Fever will be hosting the Official Closing Party with Dirty Beat. With over £80,000 already raised, this has been another incredible effort by all involved.
If you would like to donate to the university’s Movember campaign, please follow the link here. More information can be found via @movemberexeter on Instagram.
