by James Dodd
SPARKED by Time to Talk Day, sports journalism students at the University of South Wales look to complete 400 miles by the end of February.
The challenge, which includes all three cohorts, will see the undergraduates try to cover the distance, beginning on Time to Talk Day yesterday (4th) until the end of the month.
The form of exercise can be running, cycling, or walking.
The inspiration of the distance came from Wales’ first away match of the Six Nations against Scotland in Murrayfield, which will take place on Saturday, February 13th.
There is approximately 400 miles between the Principality Stadium and Murrayfield.
The aim is to raise awareness about mental well-being, as well as raising money for Mind Cymru in the process.
Joe Mansfield on the challenge
Final year student, Joe Mansfield, came up with the idea that once a week during the form of activity the students should interact with eachother by talking on the phone.
“I feel it is very important for us as students to acknowledge our mental health and be proactive about making steps to ensure we don’t feel isolated,” he said.
“That is why I felt adding into the challenge a weekly conversation with our course mates was important, it forces us to make time for social interaction and means we all stay in touch.
“Statistics show that some members of our course are likely to be going through a tough time mentally so if we can come together and tighten our bond as a course then that can only be a positive thing.
“Raising money for a charity like Mind Cymru as well is a great motivation for us. They are doing such good work at taking on an issue that is so prevalent in our society.”
Tobias Hunt, who is currently in his second year of study, will be one of several people also getting active.
He explained how vital getting involved will be.
“I’m really looking forward to joining in with the challenge for an important matter. Mental health is important now more than ever and I’d really like to help raise awareness of this,” the 19-year-old said.
“Talking to people is vital in my opinion. Especially now we’re in another lockdown it’s really tough on people mentally.
“Exercise is a good way of taking your mind off things and relieving stress. A simple message to check up on someone is so important and could really help that person who’s struggling.”
A GoFundMe page will be set up in the coming days, so make sure to keep updated via the sports journalism course website ExpoSport and Twitter @SportsJournoUSW for more information.