Kickz Boys Face the Challenge of a Lifetime

On the 13th November 2009, football legends Denis Irwin and Andy Ritchie will be joined by 25 Manchester United fans for a once-in-a-life-time opportunity to trek across the Sahara Desert. Joining them will be two members of the Foundation’s Kickz project -Dan Robinson, 22, (pictured above) and Nazir Meah, 21, - who have been sponsored by Urban Splash Chairman and Foundation Trustee, Tom Bloxham MBE.

The boys have a fundraising target of £7000 and to help them on their way Tom Bloxham MBE donated £3200 to the cause, he said:

‘I know that both Dan and Nazir have had a massive impact on the Kickz project over the last year.  Their enthusiasm towards this challenge is reflective of their commitment to the project in the local community.’

As well as sponsoring the boys Tom Bloxham MBE will also join them on the challenge to tackle the Sahara Desert. and he has already begun his preparation, he said:

“Sponsoring the boys inspired me and I knew I couldn't miss out.  I have been doing some training already - it is going to be tough but I am really looking forward to getting stuck in.”

Both Dan and Nazir have been volunteers with the Kickz team for around 12 months. Their role consists of coaching and maintaining the organisation of the project in Trafford, three nights a week. Kickz uses football as a means of improving the community for young people and Dan and Nazir hope that their fundraising efforts will help to advance Kickz and similar projects run by the Foundation even further.

The preparation for the Charity Challenge begins with a consultation from a health advisor at the Clubs state-of-the-art training facility in Carrington. Here, the trekkers will be assessed and advised on how best to prepare for the trek.

The Club’s official television station, MUTV, will record the entire trek with presenter Mandy Henry leading the way and reporting back to the UK with regular updates on their progress throughout the trek.

If you would like to help Dan and Nazir reach their final target, donations can be made via their Just Giving page on www.justgiving.co.uk/saharadesert.