One man. One charity. 100 kilometres.

Laura Ross

Communications Officer, Rye Harbour Nature Reserve

This September, Ranger Matt Rich, will be swapping the flat saltmarshes of Rye Harbour Nature Reserve for the rolling hills of the South Downs National Park. Over 48 hours, he’ll be walking 100km, taking on the South Coast Ultra Challenge. I grabbed my trainers and caught up with him to find out more.

So, what made you decide to take part in the South Coast Ultra Challenge?

I’ve been wanting something else to focus on – a new challenge. I’m also raising money for Sussex Wildlife Trust - my employer, but also a charity very close to my heart. They do incredible work across the county to improve conservation and wildlife and I’d love to give a little back.

Tell us a bit more about the walk

The first day, I’ll be walking from Eastbourne to Brighton, where I’ll spend the night. The next morning I’ll be heading for the finish line in Arundel. I often walk 25km in a day just doing my job on the nature reserve, so I chose the longest route to really push myself.

It doesn’t sound like you’ll need to do much extra training then?

I’m planning to do a 40km walk soon to see how much extra training I need to do. I’ve started stretching more, as I think it’s my joints that might let me down – my knees and ankles, in particular. The last thing I want is to wake up on the second day feeling exhausted and achy.

Is there any wildlife you’re hoping to see?

I’m bringing my binoculars and plan to write down the different species I come across. It’s an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, so hopefully I’ll spot a few nice surprises!

What are you hoping for at the finish line?

A lift back! Other than that, I’m looking forward to the feeling that I did it – I want to get to the end of it and go ‘Oh, that’s cool. I can do that’.

You can support Matt in his 100km challenge for Sussex Wildlife Trust by making a donation here.