The Warmest Welcome

Working my first TrailMed event

Beth Keech, Medical Student

“Action Challenge treated us to a hearty meal to fuel us through Saturday night when the first finishers started coming through.”

I got involved with TrailMed as a med student after hearing about it from a friend, and soon enough, I found myself on my way to my first event: the Jurassic Coast Challenge. I was lucky enough to get a lift to the event with the company vehicles, with some TrailMed veterans joined by a fellow medical student. Although I was subjected to some drum and bass en route, I made it down to the campsite in Wareham unscathed. We even managed to time our arrival with an epic sunset, a breathtaking display of vibrant colours that painted the sky, which was a good omen for the coming weekend. 

Saturday morning kicked off early with a sausage sandwich and a coffee to set us up for the day, and then it was time to get down to rest stop two, where I would start the event. The weather wasn’t entirely playing ball, with rain showers kicking around. Still, luckily, the medical area was under a tent to keep us dry (sorry, participants!). The bulk of the day consisted of more feet than I had ever seen, dealing with and dressing blisters. However unglamorous as it may sound, it was a profoundly fulfilling experience to relieve participants of their discomfort so they could carry on with their event.

Next, it was time to move to the Finish, where I would spend the rest of my shift until Sunday when I would finish the event. Action Challenge treated us to a hearty meal to fuel us through Saturday night when the first finishers started coming through. Aside from some foot care and participants needing to warm up, the rest of my shift went uneventfully. I was able to catch some sleep before doing it all over again on Sunday, which flew by in the sunshine. I even managed to squeeze in a quick sea swim and an ice cream during my break, which I consider a big win.

I was fortunate enough to be able to stay until the end of the event and see the last participant come in, and that was one of my favourite parts of the weekend; it’s so fantastic to see a wide range of people completing such extraordinary challenges and to facilitate that, even if only playing a small part. The sense of community and shared experience was palpable, and it was inspiring to see everyone, staff and participants, with their own exciting stories to tell. I felt a deep sense of connection and camaraderie.

I eagerly look forward to the next one, filled with anticipation and excitement for its new challenges and experiences!