Our community came together for the Battle Against Cancer

When two members of our Horsham CrossFit family began undergoing cancer treatment, we wanted to do something to show them they had a whole community behind them.

That idea became the **Battle Against Cancer Throwdown**: an in-house pairs competition to bring people together and raise money for Olive Tree Cancer Support. Olive Tree is a local charity that has supported loved ones of our members through their own cancer journeys, so it was a cause close to many hearts in the gym.

On Saturday 19 September, members of all abilities took to the competition floor at Tickfold Farm. Some were there to compete, others to cheer, volunteer or spend the day with their families. Everyone had a part to play. The atmosphere was everything we hoped it would be: plenty of hard work, plenty of noise and people looking out for one another throughout.

One of the members we came together for was Sophie Leyland, who is undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Sophie has spoken about the gym giving her a safe space to rebuild her strength and find smiling faces when she needs them. Hearing that means a great deal to us. We set out to build a place for fitness, but friendship and support are just as much a part of what makes this gym special.

Together, our community raised **£2,682 for Olive Tree Cancer Support**. We’re incredibly grateful to every person who competed, donated, helped organise the day or came along to support it.

Thank you to each and everyone of our members, spectators and those who donated, for helping us bring the event together. Thank you also to James Hamilton-Martin for photographing it, and to Olive Tree for the important work they do locally.

Most of all, to the two members at the heart of this event: Ruth, Sophie we’re with you. This day showed just how many people are in your corner.

Liam and Sam
Co-owners, Horsham CrossFit