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Celebrating history makers and personal challenges on World CP Day

All around the world, people and communities have had to adapt to big changes caused by Covid-19. World CP Day this year celebrates the fact that people with cerebral palsy are often experts at dealing with change, breaking down barriers, and coming up with creative solutions in their daily lives. The day also recognises the importance and benefits of sport and physical activity on the quality of life for people with cerebral palsy by encouraging the community to Move As One at 1pm today (Tuesday 6th October).

CP Sport virtual series challenge two graphic

It is well recognised that physical activity is vital for people with a physical impairment as it improves mobility, supports mental health and reduces the risks of developing other long-term conditions. Being part of a community also has a positive impact on mental health and this is especially important for individuals who are self-isolating and shielding. 

On Sunday 4th October, CP Sport Young Ambassador Matthew Humpreys became the first person ever to complete the London Marathon on a RaceRunner. CP World Games Champion Matt was able to achieve this remarkable feat virtually in 4.34.46 hours at Holme Pierrepont in Nottinghamshire. RaceRunning is a popular adapted sport for those who cannot functionally run and rely on sports aids for mobility and balance.

Matt Humphreys race running

(Image credit: Nick Steven, caption: Matthew Humpreys RaceRunning)

Due to the implications of Covid-19 on disabled people and their families, the Virtual Challenge Series was developed by CP Sport and delivered in partnership with LimbPower to provide a virtual but social event to encourage physical activity close to or at home.

There are three consecutive participation events in the series each with a different theme, CP Sport and LimbPower are running the challenges in parallel. 

  • Challenge one was Distance and ran from the 15th August to 15th September 2020
  • Challenge two is Time and runs from the 15th October to 15th November 2020
  • Challenge three is Numbers and runs from 15th December 2020 to 15th January 2021

To mark World CP Day, challenge 2 of the Virtual Challenge Series Time, has officially launched and entries are now open. Participants set their own targets based on the theme of time for example how far they might travel in a set amount of time over the month.

Throughout the Virtual Challenge Series entrants are given access to exclusive interactive workshops with expert coaches and presenters, ongoing support from CP Sport and LimbPower, and can be part of a virtual social community through the dedicated Facebook group. On completion of each challenge participants receive certificates, medals and t-shirts.

Challenge 1, Distance, concluded on September 15th and 50 participants set their own targets, from taking 15 steps for the first time to swimming the equivalent of the English Channel. The full results can be found here. 

 Comments from participants of Challenge 1:

 “It has been a massive boost for me to get going with this. My sport has always had a massive impact on my mental health which has really suffered these last few months. In mind of that I’m setting myself tough challenges to challenge myself.”
 “Loving this challenge, really made me get active!”
 “This challenge has really improved my strength and stamina.”
 “It’s pretty invigorating, I love this challenge.”

Entries are open for Challenge 2. The registration fee for one challenge is £12.50 (£10 for members of CP Sport or LimbPower). Participants can book online via Go Membership for CP Sport and Eventbrite for LimbPower.

To find out more about the Virtual Challenge Series or to get involved contact:

CP Sport will also be celebrating World CP Day though the #CPMoveAsOne global movement and by holding a virtual social cafe in partnership with CP Teens UK. Virtual social cafe details can be found here.