Celebrating 95 Years of Guide Dogs: A Community Challenge

At Horizon Leisure Centres, community stories are at the heart of everything we do.

This April, one local woman is taking on a powerful challenge to celebrate 95 years of Guide Dogs. Cathy Pitney, Branch Organiser for the Havant, Hayling and District fundraising group, is swimming 95 lengths every week to support a cause that helps people live independently and confidently.

To mark this milestone, Cathy has set herself a personal fundraising goal that reflects both dedication and purpose, combining her passion for swimming with her commitment to the charity.

“This week, I’m swimming 95 lengths for Guide Dogs to celebrate 95 amazing years of this incredible charity.”

A Challenge with Meaning

Cathy’s challenge is simple in concept but powerful in impact. Throughout April, she is swimming 95 lengths every week, balancing the commitment alongside full-time work and everyday life.

“I love swimming, and I love fundraising for Guide Dogs, so I thought, why not combine the two?”

The idea came from wanting to mark the charity’s milestone in a meaningful way.

“I considered a few ideas. Ninety five lengths didn’t feel quite enough, and ninety five miles felt a bit unrealistic. So ninety five lengths a week felt like the perfect balance. It’s achievable, but still a real challenge.”

Driven by Purpose

For Cathy, the motivation behind the challenge goes far beyond the physical effort. Each length is powered by a clear sense of purpose.

“I keep reminding myself why I’m doing this. Even when I feel tired, I just tell myself, come on, you can do this.”

That motivation is rooted in the impact of Guide Dogs and the difference it makes to people living with sight loss.

For Cathy, the challenge is driven by something far deeper than the physical effort. “Guide dogs are life changing. They give people their confidence back and allow them to live their lives again. It is just amazing what they do, absolutely invaluable.”

More Than Fundraising

Cathy’s work as a volunteer extends far beyond this challenge. As Branch Organiser, she plays a key role in bringing the community together to support Guide Dogs through fundraising, awareness and local events.

Behind every guide dog is years of dedication, training and community support, all leading to one life-changing partnership.

“It’s all about bringing the community together to support the incredible work of Guide Dogs.”

Support for the challenge has already been overwhelming, with donations, shares and encouragement from across the local area.

“The support has been incredible. People have really embraced the challenge, shared it and donated. I’m on a real high.”

A Community Effort

At Horizon Leisure Centres, supporting initiatives like Cathy’s is something we are proud to be part of. Providing a flexible and welcoming space has helped make this challenge possible.

“Horizon has been a huge support. I can come in early in the morning or later in the day depending on my schedule, which really helps me fit the challenge around work.”

This is a powerful example of how local organisations and charities can work together to create meaningful impact within the community.

How to Get Involved

Cathy’s challenge is already making a difference, but there is still time to get involved.

“If you can, please support us by following our social media pages, scanning the QR code and donating if you’re able to.”

And support does not have to stop at donations.

“If you’ve got a bit of spare time, we’re always looking for volunteers. It’s a really friendly, supportive group, and it’s great to be part of something that’s genuinely changing lives.”

Looking Ahead

With week one complete and momentum building, Cathy’s journey is well underway. As she continues her 95-length challenge throughout April, the impact of her efforts will continue to grow.

“It’s such a special thing to be doing to celebrate 95 years of Guide Dogs.”

Horizon Leisure Centres looks forward to following Cathy’s progress and celebrating her achievement at the end of the month.