A WOKINGHAM schoolboy has embarked on another fundraising effort, having earned a reputation for his philanthropy in 2022.
Throughout January, Dexter Rosier is running 100km as part of RED January, an initiative which promotes movement and mental health.
Last year, the ten-year-old completed various fundraising efforts, which included a decathlon of sporting challenges for Sport in Mind alongside some of his sporting heroes.
Of his New Year’s quest, Dexter said: “It’s going awesome. I’ve always liked getting active and going running. I’m doing the runs mostly with my mum, it’s just been really fun.
The young Tottenham fan ran a mile a day throughout 2022, something which has certainly helped him to negotiate this month’s challenge.
“I thought a mile was not that much and that I’d get used to it, but it really is a lot,” he explained.
“Let’s say you can’t run on one of the days, doing the next one is really tough, you’re so tired at that point.”
The year-long project was part of a wider effort which has seen Dexter raise £3,736 for Royal Berkshire Hospital, a place which holds special meaning to him.
After a visit to the paediatric ward when he was four-years-old, Dexter remembered being particularly impressed by the department’s playroom.
The facilities made what would have been an otherwise dreary visit a memorable one, and the Woodley resident is keen to afford other young patients the same experience.
After completing the RED January challenge, the young Tottenham fan has said he will start on a new and exciting quest. Veering away from the sport and fitness theme, Dexter will attempt to break a world record.
The primary school student plans to recognise all 254 flags of the world in the fastest time ever, and says he knows around 150 already.
He explained: “It’s not an active challenge, but I’ve known about flags for a long time and it’s something I think I’m quite good at.
“Something that will really help was watching the World Cup. To be honest I knew most of the flags of the teams there, but it was still really useful.”
Dexter’s mother, Samantha, was full of praise for her son, saying: “We’re really proud of his dedication and commitment to the cause. But at the same time we’re a bit cautious because he comes up with so many weird and wonderful ideas.
“But I’m excited about this year’s flag challenge. He’s so positive and just likes doing good things for others.”
To find out more or to donate, visit: www.justgiving.com/fundraising/dexter-rosier3
