CIP to take on Sahara for youth at risk

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Chief Inspector Simon Southgate will take on the Sahara Desert in October to raise funds for Operation Breakthrough, which is a voluntary project formed by Force members to steer young people at risk away from crime and young offenders from recidivism.

Simon will take part in the "4 Deserts: Sahara Race" from October 26 to 31, which is a self-supported, multi-day, multi-stage foot race, requiring competitors to complete a 250-kilometre course in six days across the Sahara Desert. Stage distances will range from 12 km to 100 km, and competitors must be self-supported, carrying all their food, clothing, and specialist mandatory safety equipment throughout the course, in race packs that can weigh as much as 30 pounds.

Most challenging event

The event is considered one of the most challenging and prestigious outdoor events in the world, attracting a field of around 150 athletes from over 50 countries. There is also considerable media interest in the event, with comprehensive television coverage on the National Geographic Channel and other sports and adventure channels.

Simon's progress during the race can be monitored at anytime by visiting the official event website: www.4deserts.com/sahararace.

Besides his fund-raising efforts, Simon hopes to complete the race, finishing in the "top half" of the field, raise awareness in Hong Kong and elsewhere of the work of Operation Breakthrough, and encourage others to get involved with Operation Breakthrough.

A long time supporter of Operation Breakthrough, Simon has volunteered to assist with a number of different programmes, including outdoor adventure training, boxing and rugby. He has also been the MC and DJ for many of Operation Breakthrough's boxing events.

Appeal for support

Simon is an enthusiastic sportsman and particularly enjoys adventure racing, having completed a large number of multi-discipline endurance races, including the Action Asia Challenges, AXN Challenge Races, and the SEYONASIA off road Triathlon. He has also completed the Hong Kong Oxfam Trail-walker on three occasions.

Simon is looking forward to support by Force members for his fund-raising efforts. Those wishing to sponsor his endeavour to cross the Sahara and attain his goals, may make out cheques payable to "Breakthrough (Juvenile Development) Limited and send them to P.O. Box No. 73992, Kowloon Central Post Office. Please mark the envelope with "Sahara Desert Challenge".

For donation of $100 or above, official receipts will be issued. For this, donor's contact details are required, such as name, address, telephone number, e-mail or business card.

CIP Southgate is looking forward to support for a worthy cause
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