Q & A with superstar fundraiser, Andrew Nightingale at 8build

Andrew Nightingale is a Project Manager at CRASH Corporate Patron 8build.  8build have been a patron of CRASH since 2014, supporting our construction projects with homelessness charities and hospices.

Andrew has raised an impressive £5,361 to help vulnerable people. Since 2019, he has completed 4 races from 10K’s to half marathons to raise money for CRASH and he is signed up to take part in the ASICS London 10K on 25^th July 2021.

If you need some inspiration before you set yourself a challenge, we asked Andrew about his experience of fundraising and what tips he has for anyone thinking of signing up to a race.

What motivated you to get into running?

I’ve always enjoyed running and started to take it seriously around 2013 where I set a goal of running a marathon which I did in 2015… that was horrible! I don’t think my body is suited to it, but I completed it at least. I found that 5K, 10K and ½ marathons suited me more and now it’s more pace than distance.

Do you have any tips for anyone thinking of signing up to a race?

I would say start slow and build up, don’t wake up one morning and think you can go run a ½ marathon, start with 3K and then add 0.5k each week and be consistent.

You are signed up to run the ASICS 10K in July, how’s your training going so far?

It was going very well as I am aiming for a below 40:00 time which earlier in the year was being hit… Covid-19 has slowed things a bit but starting to build back up again now.

Why did you decide to raise money for CRASH?

CRASH has been affiliated with 8build for years, probably since I joined in 2010 so more than happy to support our corporate charity, helping people who are homeless and children and adults receiving hospice care.

What do you think is unique/special about CRASH?

All the great work to support those who are homeless which is something that is very important.

You’ve surpassed your fundraising target every time you’ve fundraised for CRASH; how did you do it?

Working in construction you end up meeting a lot of people and forming relationships…. Those who you help will support you accordingly if you treat them well so I try and reach out to as many people as I can for their support.

Most importantly, how do you plan on celebrating once you have crossed the finish line?

Having a cup of tea with the good lady and boy, he will be on milk though!