Leeds families invited to don their capes as SNAPS Superhero Challenge returns
Families are being invited to take part in the SNAPS Superhero Challenge, an inclusive fun run-style event designed especially for children with additional needs.
The Superhero Challenge takes place on Sunday, May 31, from 10.30am-12.30pm, at the John Charles Centre for Sport in Leeds, and is organised by Leeds-based charity SNAPS.
Open to children of all ages and abilities, the event gives each child the chance to set their own challenge around the 400m athletics track.
Participants can walk, run or wheel, with full support for children using wheelchairs, walkers or pushchairs. Every child is cheered across the finish line and receives a medal and goodie bag.
Alongside the run, families can enjoy a wide range of activities including superhero meet and greets, bouncy castles, inclusive sports, craft and sensory activities, games, face painting and visits from the emergency services.
One family looking forward to taking part this year is Mel Sykes and her four-year-old son, Jakob.
Jakob, who is autistic and has multiple complex medical needs, including developmental delay and a rare genetic condition, has been supported by SNAPS for around two years. Mel says the charity has helped reduce the isolation many parent carers experience.
“Before SNAPS, Saturdays were always hard,” she explained.
“There was nowhere we could go that could meet Jakob’s needs. Now he has a safe, supportive place where he can just be himself.”
Through SNAPS, Jakob has accessed sessions including hydrotherapy, rebound therapy and Stay and Play. Mel says the impact has been felt across the whole family.
“I can actually sit down, relax and drink a cup of tea without worrying if he’s safe or being judged,” she said.
“Making friends with other parents who understand what daily life is like makes a huge difference.”
The Superhero Challenge holds particular meaning for the family. Mel recalls watching Jakob and his brother take part in last year’s event.
“Seeing him running around the track and being cheered on was really special,” she said. “It’s a fun, welcoming day where children are celebrated for who they are.”
Mel has chosen to fundraise through the Superhero Challenge so more families can benefit from SNAPS’ services.
“Having a community and somewhere safe to go matters,” she added. “Events like this help make sure that support is there for families who need it.”
The Superhero Challenge is organised by SNAPS, a Leeds-based charity supporting children with additional needs and their families through therapies, leisure activities and a supportive community.
SNAPS doesn’t receive statutory funding to deliver its services, so funds raised through events like the Superhero Challenge help keep its services running.
The event is being sponsored by Irwin Mitchell, Manning Stainton, Enfinium and Taylor Wimpey Yorkshire.
Lisa Morton, Head of Fundraising at SNAPS, says the charity is looking forward to welcoming families back once again.
“The Superhero Challenge is designed so every child can take part in a way that feels right for them,” she said.
“It’s a positive, inclusive day that brings families together while helping to raise vital funds, so we can continue to be there for children like Jakob and their families.”
Families can register for the Superhero Challenge for free by committing to a minimum fundraising target of £55, which could fund a SNAPS physiotherapy session. Alternatively, families can choose to pay £12 per child if they prefer not to fundraise. Adults attend for free.
The SNAPS Superhero Challenge takes place on Sunday, May 31, at John Charles Centre for Sport, Middleton Grove, Leeds. To register or find out more, visit: https://www.snapsyorkshire.org/snaps-superhero-challenge/