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A runner who has taken part in the Reindeer Run, wearing a navy RNLI T-shirt, dark Reindeer Run beanie and red medal. Photo: RNLI/Nathan Williams.

Reindeer Run: 10 reasons to clock up 24 miles in December

Support your volunteer lifeboat crews this Christmas by taking on the RNLI Reindeer Run challenge. That’s one reason already!

Do you run a mile when you hear the word ‘run’? Well, that’s exactly what you need to do - only 24 of them - as part of our annual Reindeer Run fundraising challenge! 

Running is just one option. How you clock up the mileage throughout the month is entirely up to you, because every one is welcome to take part - walkers, joggers and wheelchair users alike. 

Wherever, and however, you take on the challenge, you’ll be part of one Reindeer Run herd, united in your mission to help save lives at sea. If that isn’t reason enough, here are a few more. 

A woman pushing an older woman in a wheelchair down a coutnry road. They're both smiling.

Photo: Shutterstock

Every one is welcome to take part in the RNLI Reindeer Run 24-mile challenge

1. Do it your way

Every mile you complete on your Reindeer Run challenge represents every hour our lifeboat volunteers are on call each day, even at Christmas – 24 miles for 24 hours a day. Choose to do a mile a day for 24 days, spread your miles throughout December, or, if you’re feeling particularly ambitious, do one big run or hike.

2. Do it together

Taking on the challenge with family and friends can help to keep each other motivated. It’s also a good way to keep in touch at a time of year that can be difficult for some. Do it as one team or get competitive! 

3. Count down to Christmas in a healthier way

Getting outside during the shortest, darkest days of the year can help to boost your fitness, mood and immunity. Plus, you’ll feel a wonderful sense of achievement as you cross off the miles, while savouring a well-earned advent calendar chocolate!

4. You’ll be doing something good and charitable

There’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than helping a cause that’s close to your heart. Lifeboat crews around the UK and Ireland may be called away from their families this Christmas, but they’ll be so grateful to have you by their side. 

5. You’ll make a lifesaving difference

From training and protective kit to lifeboats and launching equipment, the money you raise will help keep our crews ready to save lives and bring them - and those they rescue - back home to their families.

A crew member in an inshore lifeboat, surrounded by sea spray and rain.

Photo: RNLI/Nigel Millard

Our crews save lives in all weathers - but you don’t have to

6. You can wait for the storm to pass

Winter brings all kinds of weather – gale-force winds, driving rain or snow, and freezing temperatures. Add to this towering waves and swells, and you can picture the challenging conditions our lifeboat crews can face. It’s kind people like you who help them brave all weathers, but they wouldn’t want you to face the same. So, stay safe on your challenge - dress for the weather and wait for bad weather to pass.  

7. Enjoy a feel-good explosion! 

Exercise outdoors during winter, indulging in Christmas treats and raising money for charity can all help to release our happy endorphins. So, imagine how you’re going to feel doing all three!   

8. You’ll get a medal …

Reach your fundraising target and you’ll be rewarded with a Reindeer Run medal - a special reminder of your courageous achievement and your invaluable contribution to saving lives at sea.

A woman wearing a Reindeer Run beanie and medal, smiling at the camera.

Photo: RNLI/Nathan Williams

Sign up early to get a free Reindeer Run beanie*! Plus, hit your fundraising target and receive a special keepsake medal!  

9. … and a Reindeer Run beanie!

Be one of the first 980 people to sign up and nab yourself a free beanie*! It’ll get you in the Reindeer Run spirit and keep your noggin warm. You could even accessorise it with a pair of antlers! 

10. You’ll be on Santa’s nice list

OK, we can’t absolutely guarantee this one, but you’ll be in with a good chance for your selfless kindness and goodwill to all. Plus, Santa can never have enough reindeers.

A Reindeer Run fundraising guide, tracker, beanie and medal.

Photo: RNLI/Nathan Williams

Sign up today and get a free Reindeer Run fundraising guide and challenge tracker. Plus, a free beanie* and medal could be yours too! 

So, what are you waiting for? Don your antlers and join the herd!

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