Karen Briggs, Lifestyle Coordinator at Redbond Lodge Care Home, part of the Runwood Homes Group, took on the famously messy and challenging Maldon Mud Race on Sunday 4th May, all in the name of raising money for Redbond Lodge‘s residents’ amenity fund.
Dressed in a bright red lobster costume, Karen waded through the chilly river, crawled across a thick clay riverbank, and back again. Despite the slippery, knee-deep mud and the cold conditions, Karen’s determination and sense of fun kept her going through the unforgettable challenge.
Support for Karen poured in from across the community. Residents, families and staff from Redbond Lodge, as well as children from Puffin Pre-school, rallied behind her, sending well wishes and cheering her on. In the lead-up to the event, Karen invited the children from Puffin Pre-school to take part in an “Under the Sea” themed arts session, creating colourful fish, seahorses and octopuses. The children were big fans of Karen’s lobster costume and all enjoyed a singalong of the classic sea-themed song.
This year marked the 51st anniversary of the Mud Race. Over 300 brave participants took part, warming up together before plunging into the river.
Reflecting on her motivation, Karen said, “I just wanted to raise money for the residents to be able to offer them a little extra in life, for their health and wellbeing.”
Karen’s muddy adventure is a shining example of community spirit, creativity, and dedication to resident wellbeing — with a generous splash of fun.
