Hassocks student takes on Arctic dog-sledding challenge

A former student of Central Sussex College in Haywards Heath is preparing for the adventure of a lifetime by going dog-sledding in the Arctic Circle to raise money for charity.
By The Newsroom
Published 22nd Feb 2016, 11:01 BST
Updated 22nd Feb 2016, 11:05 BST
Hassocks student Amy Coop is preparing for the adventure of a lifetime by going dog-sledding in the Arctic Circle to raise money for the make A Wish Foundation - picture submittedHassocks student Amy Coop is preparing for the adventure of a lifetime by going dog-sledding in the Arctic Circle to raise money for the make A Wish Foundation - picture submitted
Hassocks student Amy Coop is preparing for the adventure of a lifetime by going dog-sledding in the Arctic Circle to raise money for the make A Wish Foundation - picture submitted

Amy Coop, 19, from Hassocks will brave temperatures as low as -30 C as she leads a pack of four huskies on a hazardous trek across the frozen ice in April.

She is aiming to cover about 125 miles in the four-day expedition during which she may sleep out on the ice and freezing wind in tents or cabins with no power or lighting.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

She is raising money for the Make-A-Wish Foundation, which grants magical wishes to enrich the lives of children and young people fighting life-threatening conditions. Since being established in the UK in 1986, it has made more than 9,000 wishes for children – such as swimming with dolphins or trips to Disneyland – come true.

In preparation for the adventure, Amy has been encouraged to train by building up her stamina, strength and crucially improve her balance for steering the sled across what can be a bumpy surface with lots of obstacles in the way.

She said: “I’m really looking forward to the challenge, although I’m a little apprehensive about it. Fortunately I love dogs, so trekking with the huskies such be great fun.”

She has so far raised £375 towards her £3,000 fundraising target. To sponsor her go to her Just Giving page www.justgiving.com/Amy-Coop

Related topics:HassocksHaywards Heath