Get ready to run, walk, or simply cheer from the sidelines this bank holiday weekend as an innovative fundraising event comes to West Yorkshire. Challenge4Hope, taking place on Sunday, August 30, 2026, is the brainchild of local homelessness charity Focus4Hope and Brodstock, the fundraising team from Old Brodleians Rugby Club. Designed with everyone in mind—from seasoned fitness enthusiasts to families seeking a fun day out—the event prioritises participation over pressure, aiming to raise vital funds for vulnerable people across the region.
Event Overview and Core Challenge
Participants can choose to take on a personal physical challenge or simply drop by to enjoy the festivities while contributing to a worthy cause. The centrepiece is the scenic 18-mile Brighouse Boundary Way Challenge, a demanding, predominantly off-road route that participants can run or walk. There’s an option to complete the full circuit individually or as part of a team of three, with each member covering approximately ten kilometres. For those seeking an extra test of endurance, the challenge can be extended to two full circuits, creating an ultramarathon-distance event.
Craig Wood from Old Brodleians Rugby Club, who is helping to organise the event, said: “This promises to be a fantastic day out. Our team challenge is a great chance for local businesses, friendship groups and families to have a rewarding adventure together. You don't have to be an experienced runner to take part, but if you do want a challenge it won’t disappoint!”
Additional Activities and Family Fun
Beyond the boundary way, the event offers a variety of options. A 5km Family Fun Run for participants of all ages and abilities will take place within the grounds of Old Brodleians Rugby Club, ensuring no roads to cross or traffic to navigate. Cyclists can choose from 70km or 100km circular routes designed as self-supported challenges, with participants navigating independently throughout. Entry fees range from £2.50 for the children’s Fun Run to £50 for a team of three tackling the Brighouse Boundary Way Challenge.
The celebrations continue throughout the afternoon with a series of free sporting taster sessions for children, including netball, rounders, American flag football and rugby. Open to all young people, the sessions aim to introduce new sports in a fun, welcoming, and inclusive environment.
Community Celebration and Future Impact
As the day’s challenges conclude, everyone can relax and celebrate together at a community barbecue with live music into the evening, creating a festival atmosphere and recognising everyone's achievements. Louise Reed, CEO of Focus4Hope, said: “Every entry fee for the physical challenges or donation made will help support our life-changing work, while also enabling Brodstock to continue investing in charitable and community initiatives that make a lasting difference across our local area.” The organisers hope Challenge4Hope will become an annual event that not only raises vital funds but also inspires people of all ages and abilities to get active and have fun while supporting their community.
Event Details
Date: Sunday, August 30, 2026
Venue: Old Brodleians Rugby Club, Woodhead Park, Hipperholme, Halifax
Registration: focus4hope.co.uk
Cost: Entry fees from £2.50 to £50 for physical challenges
