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This May, colleagues at Shorts came together for a shared goal: to get moving, support their wellbeing, and take on the Short Big Team Challenge 2026.
This was the second year that our team took part in the challenge, which this year was timed to coincide with Mental Health Awareness Month. The challenge was about more than just steps – it was about encouraging time outdoors, boosting energy levels, and creating a sense of connection across teams; a fun, team-based fitness event where participants track their walking (or steps) to collectively complete a virtual journey.
What was the challenge?
This year, teams set out on a virtual journey across the country, starting in Durham in the North East and making their way through eight milestones to reach Canterbury in the South East. That’s a hefty 545 miles (878 km) per team. No small feat, even virtually!
Participants tracked their steps and distances, contributing to their team’s progress along the route.
Who took part?
This year saw brilliant engagement across the firm, with:
- 76 active participants
- 13 teams competing
From early morning runs and lunchtime strolls to weekend walks and evening pacing, everyone found their own way to get involved.
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The results at a glance
Together, the effort was incredible:
- 8,980 kilometres (5,579.9 miles) walked
- 12,286,981 steps logged
- 2 teams successfully completed the full challenge distance
Team winners
Two teams successfully made it the full distance:
🥇 First place: Ketchup If You Can – 1,253.4km
🥈 Second place: The Devil Wears Strava – 1,125.9km
An amazing achievement, with the winning team setting a pace that proved hard to catch - and justifying beyond doubt their epic choice of team name.
Individual achievements
There were also some standout individual efforts:
🥇 1st place: Claudene Alberts – 320.9km Claudene took an early lead on day one and simply never let go. No breaks, no excuses—just consistent, relentless stepping.
🥈 2nd place: Sarah Cave – 232.7km (She said she’d “put her heart and sole into it” and she absolutely delivered.)
🥉 3rd place: Craig Lucas – 230.9km
A huge well done to all three for their consistency and determination.
Why it matters
While there was a bit of friendly competition along the way, the challenge was really about encouraging people to:
- Take regular breaks from their desks
- Enjoy time outdoors
- Build healthy habits that support mental wellbeing
- Stay connected with colleagues
This year also had an environmental impact, with seven trees planted as part of the initiative - representing one tree for every ten people 🌳🌳🌳🌳🌳🌳🌳
A team effort to be proud of
From early morning walks to last-minute step boosts, every contribution made a difference.
The energy, encouragement and team spirit were clear to see throughout the month – making this year’s challenge a real success.
What’s next?
With more people taking part and more distance covered than ever before, the Big Team Challenge continues to grow.
The only question left is… shall we do it again next year?
Tags: Team News
