The world’s biggest inflatable obstacle course is set to return to Kent after 5,000 people turned out for its fun-filled regional debut on Saturday.
Thrill-seekers slipped and slid across eleven of the world’s most exciting inflatables as Gung-Ho! 5k inflatable obstacle course came to Brands Hatch for the first time.
Competitors conquered the world’s largest bouncy inflatable and Europe’s tallest blow-up slide in the process, taller than THREE double decker buses.
A giant ball pit, climbing wall and foam-filled labyrinth were also among some of the tricky obstacles which were awaiting runners of all ages at the sold-out event.
The Total Wipeout-style course is the brainchild of CBeebies presenter Alex Winters, who hosted the event on the day.
He said: “What an amazing day. The venue was perfect for us and Kent was well up for it! The people of Kent were a great bunch and gave us some of the best feedback we have had for our events.
“Social media went bonkers afterwards which was great to see, and after such a response we definitely want to come back. If they will have us we will definitely return to Brands Hatch.
“We had people of all ages and abilities – one person got round the entire course in a wheelchair, even managing to pull themselves over ‘The Wall’ without any help. It was absolutely inspiring.
“We had four generations of one family running together in one wave. There were plenty of bonkers costumes which I love to see and so many people running for different charities.
“It was an all-round great effort from the people of Kent. We’ll hopefully see you again soon!”
During and after the event, social media was lit up by runners rushing to announce how much they had enjoyed the occasion.
A team from Kent Sports Trust tweeted: “What a great day supporting @begungho at @Brands_Hatch with lots of the team having had a great day out.”
Michelle Dawes went with a team of young female footballers and added her praise through Twitter, saying: “@begungho @CAFCWomen great day for our Charlton U16s!”
Marc Adams, meanwhile, took the time to post on Gung-Ho!’s official Facebook page stating simply: “Just finished. Great fun!”
Many runners used the event to raise money for various causes, including local charity partner St Christopher’s Hospice, and national partner Children in Need.
Jonathan Rigby, Director of Marketing at BBC Children in Need, said: “We were thrilled to see the amount of support in Kent for Gung-Ho! and BBC Children in Need. It was such a fun-filled day, if not a little crazy!
“A big thank you to everyone who pledged sponsorship and likewise to those that donated, every penny raised really helps make a difference to young lives and it’s all made possible by the amazing work of our supporters.”
The event was the fifth of a 12-date UK tour, with up to 60,000 people expected to take part in total.
Runners, who must be at least 4ft tall, receive a free bib with race number, Gung-Ho! t-shirt and headband, while any spectators can attend for free and enjoy the food stalls and music.
Hundreds of pictures taken of Kent participants, as well as tickets and more information about future events, are available at www.begung-ho.co.uk.
Check out Gung-Ho! updates by searching ‘Gung-Ho! on Facebook and on Twitter, at @begungho.
By ordering now you can get tickets for just £30, but prices go up closer to the event.