There is nothing like immersing yourself in your company’s ‘customer experience’ whilst raising funds for an important charity in the process. On Saturday 2nd August, that is exactly what Team Raccoon achieved, completing a SheRaces ultramarathon trek through the Peak District, raising in excess of £5,000 for Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity.
The challenge saw team members Nathalie Davies, Hannah Hopwood, Chloe Hyland, Jo Tyler, Annie Bennett and Sophie Ferrier, all of whom work for Raccoon Media Group, plus ‘honorary’ team member Rebecca Kilvington dig deep to each complete their first ever ultramarathon, covering 50 kilometres and ascending over 1300 metres.
The ultra-trail running event is part of SheRaces trail series. Launched in 2025, the series is the UK’s first female-only trail running series, events designed by women for women. This was the first edition, with more to follow in 2026. The events are aimed at improving women’s participation on the trails and showcasing that a women’s place is on the start line.
Raccoon Media Group is an award-winning global operator that delivers national and international running events within their portfolio, including The National Running Show (UK), The International Running Expo (Europe) and The Boston Run & Outdoor Expo (US).
Commenting on the achievement Hannah Hopwood, Marketing Director Europe, Raccoon Media Group said: “I took on this challenge because of a conversation I had with Melanie Berry, founder of Her Spirit at The National Running Show this year. It was about everyone deserving their place at the start line and it clearly inspired me. If you are someone who thinks you can’t do something like this, you might surprise yourself, I know I did. The encouragement, laughter and energy of the team carried me through, and I am so thankful to them.
My ‘why’ was always Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity and this kept me going when times got tough. An awe-inspiring charity that changes lives every single day. That focus pushed me beyond my comfort zone.
I’d also like to thank everyone who has supported us, from friends and family members, to colleagues and industry connections. We’ve really felt the love and encouragement to help us achieve this.”
You can still support Team Raccoon and make a difference to children’s lives here: https://www.justgiving.com/team/50kmfor5k
Team Raccoon complete first ultramarathon and raise over £5,000 for charity
