RNLI’s first ever beach-based obstacle course goes down a storm in Bournemouth!

Sandstorm’s specially-designed course presented 20 obstacles over a 5K or 10K circuit, pushing the limits of physical and mental strength as participants crawled, climbed and battled over the sandy terrain. Sandstormers worked together in their attempt to conquer fun but demanding obstacles including climbing walls, sand dunes, a cargo net, crossbeams and a slalom.

The course found Sandstormers wading through a pit of sand and water with Swamped; hauling themselves over a 3m high timber wall on Coastal Clamber; using cargo nets to scramble up a mound of sand before sliding down the tarpaulin on The Slipway; running across beams suspended over an open pit on The Crossbeam; and testing their ability to shift a heavy weight with The Long Haul – to name just a few!

Nathan Jones, 20 from Portsmouth, took on the challenge. He said:

‘It was definitely a challenge, but so much fun, I loved it! Running on sand was really tough, and some of my team almost gave up, but we helped each other and pushed to the end. Plus, it’s so rewarding doing it for a charity like the RNLI. They go out every day to help us, so it’s good to give something back. I’m hoping to do the 10K next year!

Lauren Pincott, from event organiser the RNLI, says:

‘It was so exciting to see the first ever RNLI Sandstorm come to life and we’re pleased to say it was a huge success. Cheered on by their friends and family, hundreds of people stormed the course and proved just how tough they are!

‘The atmosphere was amazing and everyone took on the obstacles with enthusiasm. Some of the obstacles took real teamwork to get through so it was great to see our Sandstormers pulling together to conquer to course. We hope all those who took part enjoyed their day and went home feeling proud to have achieved a personal challenge while helping a lifesaving charity in the process.’

Sandstorm is organised by the RNLI and will help support the charity’s lifesaving work.