29 May 2007
Sheffield students take part in challenging charity trek
Three students from the University of Sheffield have taken part in a gruelling physical challenge which saw them trek 62 miles across Western Japan to the foot of Mount Fuji in less than two days - and all in the name of charity.
Third year students Joseph Tame, 29, Jon Perry, 21, and Nigel Dryden, 28, walked virtually non-stop for 31 hours over seven mountain peaks as part of the Oxfam Trailwalker to raise money for the charity.
The 100km (62 mile) trail started in Odawara, an hour west of Tokyo, and finished at the foot of the legendary Mount Fuji. The students, who are all from the University´s School of East Asian Studies and currently on a year abroad scheme at universities in Japan, passed through spectacular scenery and climbed over 3500 metres as part of the trek.
So far they have raised over £2000 for Oxfam Japan, a member of Oxfam International, which provides vital aid to some of the world's poorest communities in times of severe crisis, and implements long-term plans aimed at improving the lives of millions who live in poverty.
Joseph, who is studying a Japanese Studies degree at the University of Sheffield and who is currently on his year abroad at Rikkyo University, Tokyo, said: "This trek was one of the most difficult things any of us has ever had to do. It wouldn´t have been possible without the support team consisting of two Japanese ex-Sheffield exchange students who followed by car, carrying our food and clothes.
"It was an incredible experience for all involved and we are delighted to have raised so much money for such a worthwhile cause. The scenes as we arrived at the foot of Mount Fuji were breathtaking, making this incredible experience completely worth it."
Jon and Nigel are also both third year students. Jon is currently studying for one year at Keio University in Tokyo and Nigel is studying at ICU in Mitaka-shi.
The students are hoping to increase the total amount of money raised for the trek and further donations can be made until 1 July 2007. To make a donation, however big or small, please visit http://www.tamegoeswild.com/trailwalker/donate.htm
Notes for Editors: In 2007, Oxfam Trailwalker will take place in six different countries across Australia, New Zealand, China (Hong Kong), the UK and Japan. Since 1981, 82,000 have people participated in the event, and some 5.6 billion Yen has been raised (as of Nov. 2006). Oxfam Trailwalker is the world's greatest team challenge to overcome poverty and injustice.
For further information please contact: Lindsey Bird, Media Relations Officer on 0114 2225338 or email l.bird@shef.ac.uk
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