Fife man set 12 challenges for five charities in 2021

Gary Staerck, who now lives in Edinburgh, said that 2020 had taught him that “you don’t know what is round the corner”, inspiring him to aim for the goals he has been putting off.

In January, Gary is giving up alcohol with the support of his wife Tricia, and then starting a nine-week challenge to complete ‘couch to 5km’ with his oldest daughter, Polly.

This will be followed by the Supernova 5Kkm at the Kelpies on March 21.

April brings the virtual kiltwalk, while May and June include two 5km challenges.

In July Gary will give up meat – again with the support of Tricia – and in August he will take part in the 10km FOR TTTS (Twin-Twin Transfusion Syndrome).

In September, he will put that running experience to good use with a 30 miles in 30 days challenge.

Things will be more relaxed in October, when Gary takes part in a 24-hour gaming session called Save Point, when he will be joined by daughters Scarlet and Amelia.

Gary will be backing Movember in November, and then doing a silent auction or raffle in December.

All of these challenges are for charities.

Gary will be supporting Twins Trust, Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity, Simpsons Special Care Babies, Scottish Autism and Shout 85258.

Gary has personal reasons for supporting all of the five charities.

If you would like to back Gary’s fundraiser, search for ‘Gary Staerck’ on the Virgin Money Giving fundraising website.