A Dubai student, aged 9, has hiked, climbed and walked for more than 60 km across the UAE to help raise funds for underprivileged children.
A British student studying at Brighton College Dubai, Finlay Reeves, has challenged himself to walk for at least 7 km to every emirate to raise funds this year.
He was accompanied by his family, including his mother Abigail, father Darren and 7-year-old brother Frankie. The family of four hiked through wadis and over the edges of mangroves. They used ropes to climb up the mountains and walked through deserted villages in the UAE.
His challenge finished on 27 March, when Expo 2020 Dubai hosted Finlay and his friends to complete a trek of 7 km within the site grounds.
Finlay said I find a lot of joy while playing Football. That is why I hiked for a charity that buys football equipment for underprivileged people.
Finlay challenged himself to raise money for Football for humanity, a UK based charity and was able to raise funds of around £3,500 ($4,556).
He stated, “I know I am fortunate, and I am very grateful for that. I know lots of individuals who have less than me.”
“I find a lot of fun in playing Football. So, I thought, why can’t other people have fun while playing Football? That is why I hiked for a charity that buys football equipment for people.”
The student said he woke up as early as 5 am to start hiking.
“I like climbing and particularly rock climbing,” he said.
“I started hiking when I was 5. I also did that when I went to Bhutan.”
“I think my favourite part about hiking in the UAE is that there is always sunlight to keep you warm, and then there is shade on the other side. Also, you are always surrounded by nature and wildlife.”