It all started when…

Kick off the New Year with purpose, community, and an epic challenge! 

Throughout January 2026, we’re inviting supporters of The Thirst Youth Café to take on a unique endurance event: run the length of the River Stort and back - 48 miles in total - anywhere, anytime, across the month of January.

This is your chance to start the year with energy and determination, all while supporting the work of The Thirst Youth Café and helping us continue to welcome, engage, encourage and empower young people in our community.

Challenge your friends, family, colleagues - or assemble a team - and take on the Stort! Make it fun, make it meaningful, and make January the month you go the distance.

How it works

The challenge runs from Thursday 1st January to Saturday 31st January 2026.

Adults and general participants aim to complete 48 miles (the length of the River Stort and back).

Young people have the option to complete just the length of the River Stort — 24 miles — across the month.

Run outdoors, indoors, or on a treadmill — all miles count.

Log your progress using Strava, Garmin, Nike Run, Apple Fitness, or any equivalent tracking app (treadmill screenshots accepted).

Mileage can be completed in one go or across multiple sessions.

Fundraising pages are available on request via Rachel@thirstcafe.com.

Under-18s can run the length only (24 miles). Under-18s participating must have parental consent. 

Every step you take supports The Thirst Youth Café (www.thirstcafe.com) and helps us continue providing vital services, activities, and mentoring for local young people.

Ready to start the year strong? Lace up, track your miles, and make a difference. Let’s run the Stort together — for our youth, for our community, and for a brighter 2026.