Revving Up for a Cause: Berkeley Homes Oxford and Chiltern’s Endurance Go-Karting Event

At Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service, we are continually inspired by the creativity and enthusiasm of our supporters, and the recent endurance go-karting event organised by Berkeley Homes Oxford and Chiltern is a shining example of this spirit.  

Wednesday 25^th September 2024 was one such remarkable day. It saw competitors from 27 teams, consisting of Berkeley staff and valued suppliers, come together at the Daytona Karting Track in Sandown, Surrey, for a thrilling three-hour race, and over £16,000 was raised for our hospice. This generous amount will significantly enhance our ability to provide essential care for babies, children and families with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions and their families. 

The day began under a glorious sun, casting a vibrant glow over the go-karting track, and excitement filled the air as participants geared up for the challenge ahead. Teams, representing various departments and partner organisations, donned their racing suits and helmets, ready to compete not just for glory but for a cause close to their hearts. The atmosphere was electric, as laughter, camaraderie, and a competitive spirit merged to create a truly memorable event. 

As the race commenced, the karts zoomed around the track, their engines roaring. Spectators cheered from the sidelines, waving flags in support of their teams. It was a thrilling sight to see colleagues and friends driving together, showcasing their skills while fostering teamwork and bonding over their shared goal of raising funds for Alexander Devine – and, of course, the promise of silverware at the end! The determination displayed by each team was palpable, and the friendly competition served to motivate everyone involved. 

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, the mood remained high, but the weather took an unexpected turn. With darkness creeping in, the rain began to fall, making conditions on the track tricky. The once dry surface became slippery, challenging drivers to navigate carefully and adapt their strategies as visibility decreased. This only heightened the excitement, as the teams battled not only against each other but also against the elements. 

Despite the challenging conditions, the resilience and perseverance shown by all the participants were truly commendable. Their commitment to the cause was unwavering, as each lap they completed brought them closer to supporting the vital work of Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice. The event showcased the power of teamwork, with competitors cheering each other on and sharing tips on how to tackle the increasingly challenging track. 

As the race drew to a close, the final lap was filled with intense competition and a sense of urgency. The cheers from supporters rang louder, urging their teams to push through to the finish line. When the checkered flag finally waved, it marked not just the end of an exhilarating race but also the beginning of a substantial impact on the lives of the children and families we serve. 

The total amount raised exceeded all expectations. Every penny raised will go directly towards providing the highest quality palliative care for babies, children and families dealing with life-limiting and life-threatening conditions, allowing us to continue our vital work and support families during their most challenging times. 

This is the sixth year of our Berkeley Foundation Community Partnership between Alexander Devine and Berkeley Home Oxfird and Chiltern. In addition to fundraising, staff get involved with volunteering their time, donating toys and participating in our events.  

A heartfelt thank you goes out to Berkeley Homes Oxford and Chiltern for their incredible support and for organising such a fantastic event. We also want to extend our gratitude to all the teams that participated, the sponsors, and the supporters who contributed to this success. Your commitment to making a difference in the lives of the children and families at Alexander Devine is truly inspiring. 

As we look forward to the future, we are excited to see how this remarkable event will contribute to the ongoing care we provide at the hospice. It is through events like this, supported by dedicated individuals and companies, that we can continue to bring joy, comfort, and hope to the families we serve. Together, we are making a meaningful impact and creating a brighter future for those in our care. 

Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey. We hope to see you at our future events, where together we can continue to support children and families when they need it most! 

Find out more about how your company can support our children’s hospice here. 

A Photo Gallery from the Day: