FROM THE SAHARA TO THE SEAFRONT: HOT RADIO PRESENTER TAKES ON SAHARA DESERT CHALLENGE AS BOURNEMOUTH FOODBANK RALLIES LOCAL RUNNERS
Local Hot radio presenter Holli Lovesy decided to swap cocktails for kilometres this year, taking on the most physically and mentally demanding challenge of her life: the Ultra Mirage El Djerid — a 25km ultra-marathon across the Sahara Desert on 27 September – all in aid of Bournemouth Foodbank.
After a year of personal upheaval that saw her leave a relationship, sell her home in New Zealand, and arrive in Bournemouth with no plan, Holli Lovesy has embraced a journey of transformation. What began as morning walks along the beach soon turned into daily runs, helping her clear her head and discover a new sense of purpose.
The challenge will see Holli running under scorching desert heat, facing extreme conditions and pushing her endurance to the limit. Her goal is to raise vital funds for Bournemouth Foodbank, which provides emergency food parcels and support to local people experiencing financial hardship.
Holli, who hosts the Hot Breakfast show on Hot Radio, said:
“This year has been about risk, resilience, and proving that it’s never too late to start again. I’m running to raise funds for Bournemouth Food Bank because no one in our community should face hunger or have to live with the insecurity of putting food on the table. This isn’t just about crossing the finish line – it’s about turning every kilometre into something bigger than myself, in honour of everyone who’s shown up for me this past year. If even one family can breathe a little easier, then every sweaty step through the desert will be worth it.”
Bournemouth Foodbank has seen demand for its services grow significantly in recent years. With the rising cost of living, more households are relying on their support. Every donation raised through Holli’s desert run will go directly towards keeping the shelves stocked and ensuring local people don’t go hungry.
Niamh Tickner, Community Engagement Coordinator said:
“Holli is a force to be reckoned with – a 25km race would be a challenge for most, but Holli is taking on this challenge under the hot desert sun. We are incredibly proud of her for taking on such an impressive challenge for our charity. Her determination is inspiring, and we’d love to see people follow in her footsteps a little closer to home at the Run Bournemouth event. Whether the Sahara or the seafront, we are incredibly grateful for all the runners who fundraise so we can continue to support families who face financial crisis.”
Holli’s ultra-marathon will take place on 27 September 2025 joining competitors from around the world in one of the most demanding race environments on the planet.
Supporters can follow Holli’s journey and donate to her fundraising page here: https://www.justgiving.com/page/runwithholli
Bournemouth Foodbank is also encouraging runners to support the charity at the upcoming Run Bournemouth event on 11-12 October. The event offers a variety of races, from kids races to a half marathon. Get in touch with Bournemouth Foodbank if you would like to support the charity at the upcoming Run Bournemouth event.
