Military Veterans take virtual trip from Anfield to Fenway Park and back
LFC Foundation's Military Veterans have challenged themselves to complete a distance of more than 6,000 miles, the equivalent of travelling from Anfield to the home of the Boston Red Sox, Fenway Park, through a collective effort of jogging, cycling and walking.
Since starting the challenge on Monday May 4, the closely-knit group, who usually play football together twice a week at the LFC Academy, have hit the halfway point, virtually reaching the home of the nine-time World Series championship winners.
The group participate in daily mileage tracking and reporting through a WhatsApp group that they set up back in March to ensure they keep in touch and benefit from their joint camaraderie and spirit, which is something they have been missing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Currently, more than 2,000 posts have been shared within the group, often a mix of ‘screenshot’ distances from their smartphone apps, selfie videos and photos, encouraging other members to keep going whilst on bike rides, outdoor jogs and even workout routines that fellow members can follow.
LFC Foundation’s Military Veterans programme has been running for more than 10 years and as of 2020, seems stronger than ever before. There are more than 50 active ex-military participants within the core group, who regularly attend weekly football sessions together at the Academy in Kirkby, run by LFC Foundation Military Veterans programme manager Steve Hollis and community coaches.
The group often travel up and down the country to play fixtures against other Military Veterans football sides, including other Premier League clubs such as Manchester City and Burnley, and other veterans initiatives, including RAF Lakenheath, HMS Temeraire and HMS Prince of Wales teams.
“Frustrated with the lack of physical activity seemingly available at the start of the pandemic, the Military Veterans now look set to achieve their incredible goal of taking a virtual trip to Fenway Park and back,” said LFC Foundation director Matt Parish.
“A true example of togetherness and spirit during a time when it is needed most. Congratulations to all.”