Trailblazing for a Cause: Tanya Hodges 

PTSD Resolution Ambassador and fundraiser extraordinaire Tanya Hodges has blitzed another epic physical challenge - all to raise much-needed funds for UK Veterans, Reservists and families struggling with mental health issues.

Tanya completed the ‘Cotswold Way Ultra Challenge' on Sunday 23rd June, after setting off on the previous morning - finishing the 100km hike in 23 hrs 06 mins (with 2225m ascent). This was an impressive 3-hour improvement on her 2023 Ultra Hike time, when she walked from Eastbourne to Arundel - also for the charity.

Registered charity PTSD Resolution is dedicated to assisting UK Veterans, Reservists and family members struggling to reintegrate into everyday life. Founded in 2009, the charity provides free, prompt and effective therapy through a UK-wide network of 200 therapists - with treatment available online or by phone. 

With over 4,000 referrals to date, supporters like Tanya help to fund treatment programmes - and spread awareness of the service to UK Veterans in need.

Tanya has supported PTSD Resolution since 2018 and prior to the Ultra Challenge initiative summited Kilimanjaro and hiked to Everest Base Camp. Her efforts also extend beyond fundraising; she has lobbied the Department of Transport to include PTSD in their training syllabus, which she now delivers as an aviation security trainer at Gatwick Airport. 

As Tanya says "I have seen first-hand – at PTSD Resolution's conferences – just how far the sponsorship money goes to saving the lives of our Veterans. I will continue to help in any way I can. I feel honoured to be an Ambassador and to raise funds and awareness for the charity."

As she recovers from this latest challenge, we asked Tanya to describe the experience in her own words:

Why did you take on your second Ultra Hike?

After successfully completing a 100km previously I wanted to try and better my time. I set the challenge to complete in under 24hrs this time. I would be doing this challenge solo in the Cotswolds. 

What did your training involve?

My training consisted of early morning walks before work, horse-riding, regular HIIT sessions and longer walks at the weekend. I used the stairs at every opportunity and boycotted my car as much as possible. I also spent time mentally preparing for the huge task by listening to inspirational podcasts, films and visualisations.

How did you feel before the event?

I arrived at the accommodation at the university (my start point) on the Friday afternoon and that's when the nerves kicked in. I was alone now and never walked in that area before so I was literally going into the unknown. I managed to eat breakfast, one last kit check - and made my way to the start pen. I was full of nervous energy, excitement and a sense of wow, this is really about to happen. I started up my Garmin and once I heard the buzzer go I was off!

Tell us more about the event itself!

I tried my best to not think of the end point, just small segments between each check point. I listened to music, ate many snacks and enjoyed the views. I spent most of the first 70km walking alone, exchanging the odd hello and well done to others. I saw many people retiring or being medically removed from the challenge. A combination of heat, hills and lack of fluid really caught some people out. 

I reached my halfway point (53km) in 11 hours at 6pm and had climbed 1600m at that point. I was thrilled how I was progressing so far. Halfway was a change of clothes, dinner and a mindset change to go into the second part - night-time. I had done it before so I knew I could do it again. I only had one visit to the medic to deal with a blister at 68km. On my previous 100km I'd been to the medics many times for feet issues. I had used a slightly different method for managing my feet this time and it had paid off. 

It didn't get dark until 10pm and I was rewarded with a beautiful sunset followed by a huge full moon. Time to put on the head torch and follow the glow sticks! At checkpoint 6 (68km) at 9pm I met another woman walking solo and we stayed together until the finish line. It helped having her company overnight as the real fatigue started to set in and all my body wanted to do was sleep. She had lost a family member to suicide so was walking for 'Mind'. 

The night felt long but I enjoyed a ham and cheese toastie and cup of tea at 0100 which was greatly received! Another three hours and checkpoint 8 (93km) at 0430 and it was light! A very quick loo stop and onwards to the finish line! The last 2/3 kms were hard with uneven ground, more stiles and gates and fatigue hitting hard. It was a relief to see the 99km marker and we pushed on.

 I could see the finish line and flags ahead of me, my best friend waiting for me with the charity banner and cheers. I started to cry as I approached the finish line and gave my friend, and the woman I had walked with a huge hug! We'd done it! I was given my medal, t-shirt and glass of fizz! I had a breakfast roll, quick massage and it was time to go back to Sussex.

How did you feel afterwards?

After such a physical endeavour and lack of sleep it was home to a nap and salt bath. My limbs were tired but my sense of achievement was high. I rewarded myself with a curry and a well-deserved beer! Lots of stretching and foam rolling, visit to physio and lots of congratulations from people was great. 

What’s next?

I am planning on more 50km Ultras - and in January will be attempting to climb Cotopaxi in Ecuador.

You can still support Tanya’s efforts via her JustGiving page:

www.justgiving.com/page/tanya-hodges-1698228558187

- All travel & training costs have been met privately - so all funds raised will go direct to PTSD Resolution.