I got marshaled in my usual spot at Hove Park. It was a good morning cheering on the awesome walker, joggers and runners. I even got to cheer on a fellow Goodgymer!

I attended a workshop by Active Ageing Alliance Learning representing Goodgym.A lot of important information have been shared on how to make activity more accessible for older people. It was a great opportunity for networking and socialising

Sanctuary Runners Gaza Relay Run

Disregarding downpours earlier in the day, an enthusiastic group of Goodgymers jogged to Moulsecoomb Primary to help out in the garden. Bypassing the historical huts constructed for pedagogical purposes, we headed to the veg patch and a collection of young trees at the back of the playground. Moulsecoomb Primary is well-known for its lush and variegated playground, and we do enjoy visiting periodically to help with weeding and general gardening.

Serenaded by the unexpected but welcome cries of a nearby urban chicken, we hacked at overgrown brambles, dug up weeds, and meticulously removed bindweed that was choking the baby trees. We were having so much fun we almost forgot to stop, but sadly the darkening sky warned us that it was time to be on our way.

Thanks team for a great task, and to Rosie for leading the first part of the run! We're looking forward to returning to more of our old haunts as we get into autumn 🍂

On Sunday 31st August, Brighton Sanctuary Runners came together for a very special initiative in support of Palestine. The idea was simple but powerful: to run the length of Gaza – 40km – as a team relay along the Brighton seafront.

We gathered at the Brighton Table Tennis Club from 10am, with runners setting off at 10:30am. To cover the distance, we split into two groups. Each runner took on a 2km stretch along the seafront, passing the baton before the next group sets off. Some participants even went back and forth for more than 2km without showing any signs of tiredness – running joyfully and determinedly, all for Palestine. Together, we completed the full symbolic 40km by midday. With flags flying and voices raised, the atmosphere was full of solidarity, energy and hope.

We were also delighted that Diego from GoodGym joined us on the run, adding even more spirit to the team effort.

The activity ended with a shared meal back at the Table Tennis Club. Liz prepared a beautiful rummaniya – a traditional Gazan dish – and Mailinda made a delicious rice dish that everyone enjoyed together. While I felt deeply grateful for the kindness and generosity of this feast, I could not help but think of the people in Gaza who are being starved at this very moment.

I cannot describe how emotional it was for me to see everyone carrying Palestinian flags and chanting “Free Palestine.” I wish I could thank each and every one of you personally. I always tell my friends, family, and the people I know in Gaza and the West Bank about how much of the British public are really trying their best to end the genocide and see a free Palestine. Shukran from the bottom of my heart for the food, solidarity and bravery.

It was a moving morning of running, community, and unity – a reminder of how powerful small acts of solidarity can be when carried out together.

This week, 12 GoodGymmers made their way to One Church on Florence road, to help them clear space for a community compost to be installed. One Church Brighton is a broad and inclusive church, who do lots of different activities in and around Brighton, from worship to running community cafes, and putting on events.

6 of us braved the run up Ditchling Road, while others made their own way via bike or walking - all of us arriving to a warm welcome from out host (and very own GoodGymmer!) Michael, and Danny from local skincare company My Skin Feels - whose generous donations are funding the new composting site, which will be used by the local community.

After collecting some rather serious looking tools, we all got stuck in clearing an old flower bed and leveling the soil. Although our enthusiasm quickly waned as we discovered just how difficult removing a tree from the root is 😄. Liam, Euan and Frances did a fantastic job digging and sawing until eventually the bulk of the tree root gave way.

Whilst some of us were busy playing lumberjacks, others set about clearing the church walls and flowerbeds from weeds and litter, ensuring the space looked it's very best for the community who uses it.

A big welcome this week to two first timers to Brighton GoodGym, Jorge and Tristian. We hope you had fun and that we'll see you at another task soon :)