The Brief: Create a Flagship Event
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home came to Gladiator Events in 2014 with a desire to organise their first ever fundraising challenge event. The goal was to diversify their fundraising income and to create a flagship event for the charity. They were keen on a challenge that welcomed dog lovers and their dogs and wanted to explore the possibility of an obstacle race.
The Event: A World First
Gladiator Events broke new ground by designing the world’s first obstacle race for dogs and their owners: The Muddy Dog Challenge. The 2.5km and 5km courses take place in stunning private Estates across the UK. They each include up to 20 obstacles suitable for dogs and owners, that are completely unique, fun, wet and muddy!
The Result: Multiple Awards and Over £1 Million Raised
The pilot event in 2015 sold out in a matter of weeks and raised £45,000 for the Home. It gained fantastic feedback and overwhelming support for future events. In years 3 and 4 we won ‘Best Fun Run’ at the National Running Awards and in year 5 we operated in eight locations, raising over £1 Million and reaching a coveted spot in the ‘Massive Top 25 Fundraising Events’ list - the first time an animal welfare charity has ever made the list! The event is now in its ninth successful year.
“I wanted to say a massive thank you to you for being such amazing people – I really have never worked with such professional, helpful and smiley people in any of my roles over the years. You have made it a complete joy and I have loved meeting you at all the events and getting to know the freelancers too, who are simply awesome so please pass on my love to them too. You’re like a crazy amazing family!”
