For most of us, the thought of a 10k run is enough to warrant a lie-down. But for one determined Swindonian, it’s just the warm-up. Aurélie Soulier, 43, is setting her sights on a series of intense physical challenges this May, all in memory of her dear friend Judith and to raise vital funds for Prospect Hospice.
No stranger to pushing herself, Aurélie previously walked 78 miles across Wiltshire in three days, raising over £1,000. She’s also trekked through Iceland with Prospect Hospice, adding another £3,000 to her fundraising total. But this time, it’s personal.
“Judith was a keen walker, a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award leader, and a huge inspiration,” says Aurélie. “She passed away suddenly in December 2020 from leukaemia. I couldn’t even attend her funeral due to the lockdown, so I’ve channelled my grief into action – into doing something that reflects her energy and spirit.”
Aurélie’s tribute takes the form of not one but five challenges across the month of May, including the grueling Goggins Challenge – running four miles every four hours for 48 hours. That’s 48 hours of interrupted sleep, relentless discipline, and sheer grit. And it all kicks off at 5pm on Friday 23 May near the Orbital Shopping Park, with routes open to supporters who fancy joining her on any leg.
Here’s what she’s got lined up:
Marlborough Downs Challenge – a scenic but punishing 20-mile trail run
Royal Wootton Bassett Sprint Triathlon
Sunset 10k at Barbury Castle
Swindon Longevity Games
Goggins 4x4x48 Challenge – the big one
But it doesn’t stop there. Two weeks after May’s madness, Aurélie’s back at it for Endure 24, a 24-hour team running event. Then in July, she’s taking on the epic Race to the Stones, covering 100km from the Chilterns to Avebury – this time aiming to run the distance rather than walk it, as she did previously.
What drives her? Gratitude and community. “Prospect Hospice supported Judith’s family in those final, difficult days. The care they offer is beyond words. My target is £600 – enough to fund 24 hours of care for one patient. It’s my way of giving something back.”
Aurélie’s mission isn’t just about fundraising – it’s about showing people what’s possible, and encouraging locals to get moving. She’s even tied in her Goggins Challenge with Seven Fields parkrun on the Saturday morning, urging others to join her for a bonus mile afterwards.
For anyone inspired by her journey, Prospect Hospice is also running Challenge 45, marking the charity’s 45th anniversary. It’s a brilliant opportunity for those wanting to test themselves while supporting a much-loved local service.
To donate or find out more about Aurélie’s efforts, visit her JustGiving page.
