Conversation was buzzing and energy filled the room at Burnside village last Thursday, as local popular media names and ambassadors gathered for the launch of Leukaemia Foundation SA’s latest project, Lofty Ambition. Yoga instructors performed impressive bends on either side of a charming entrance with plant detail, as a middle strip of the shopping precinct was sectioned off for the event.
The immediate vibe was calm and positive as the attendees mingled and an acoustic musician performed in the background. Representatives from the Leukaemia Foundation took to the stage and announced the concept of Lofty Ambition, which essentially encourages the Adelaide public to participate in the popularly loved (and sometimes hated) climb of Mount Lofty throughout the month of November in order to raise funds for the Leukaemia Foundation.
The rules are simple: conquer the climb once a month, once a week, three times a week, or every day for the 30 days of the month and raise as much money as you can.
If transportation or fear of tackling the trek alone is an issue, never fear! There will be shuttle buses provided each Sunday morning leaving from Burnside Village to Waterfall Gully and back down after convenient group walks with the official ambassadors including: Hamish Hartlett, Port Adelaide Football Club; Bruce Djite, Adelaide United; Hayley Pearson, Adelady; and Dasha Gaivoronski, Bags and Bunnies – with a little bonus for any Yogi’s out there, as the Sunday treks will finish with a yoga session overlooking the beautiful Adelaide, held by Lululemon!
The launch itself was a heart warming success as young local cancer survivor, Andrew, touched the hearts of all those who attended with the inspiring story of his battle with the disease. As he shared his personal experiences with the crowd, particularly drawing on the importance of being finally able to get back to the activities he once loved including dominating Mount Lofty again, as he so longed to do while receiving chemotherapy and recently accomplished for the first time in over 12 months, there wasn’t a dry eye in the room. His positive outlook on life and advice to anyone suffering their own battles to “just get out of bed each day” had the crowd in an emotional state of admiration.
So there it is Adelaide, whether you need to get fit for better health, want to lose some weight to feel 10/10 in your bathers this summer or just read this article and realised how much you take advantage of your healthy body (like me), there couldn’t be a more important reason to throw on your active wear and climb a beautiful mountain with an incredible view than to fundraise for a cure for cancer.
So what are you waiting for?
For further information or to register for Lofty Ambition, visit leukaemia.org.au.
