01 September 2023
Sonia Barjonnet, employee of the Luxembourg Red Cross, has taken up the challenge of taking part in the Lapland Trophy to collect donations. She will be setting off from 18 to 21 January 2024 to join other participants in this sporting and solidarity-based competition. Sonia has chosen to represent the Luxembourg Red Cross at this event.
Why do you want to take on such a challenge?
Sonia Barjonnet: It is important to challenge yourself: it means turning your dream into action. Whether usual or spectacular, the challenge is a way to push your limits. Challenges bring out the full potential that lies hidden inside us, quite often due to our daily routine. They boost our confidence and give wings to move boldly forward. Taking part in the the Laponie Trophy means meeting new people and new life experiences by developing my skills and knowledge.
Why this cause, or this competition in particular? Did one come before the other?
SB : I dreamed of going one day to Lapland. And at the same time, I think that there are destinations that are deserved… and Lapland is one of them. It is associated with the idea of traveling differently; I realize that the journey is more important than the destination. It’s not the trophy that interests me but the path to get there: the encounters, the efforts, the emotions. To surpass yourself by participating in a sports raid is good. It’s even better to give meaning to your actions by supporting a charity. If I manage to finish on the podium, a cheque will go to the Luxembourg Red Cross, as that’s the organisation I’ve chosen to represent. At the same time, I’m starting to look into sponsorship and donations, so as not to put too much pressure on myself.
What is the most difficult thing in your preparation? The rhythm, the intensity, the “psychological weight”?
SB : The challenge is that a project of this scale is usually stretched over a year (or more). I have less than 6 months to complete everything: physical, mental and logistical preparation, search for sponsors, communication, and all the other To Do’s. I also have to train at least 4 times a week, it’s a rhythm to take, you have schedule and review your priorities. Besides, the difficulty is to train alone. This raid is only done in pairs: between friends, sisters or colleagues… Since I came last minute, I do not personally know my partner who lives in the Paris region. For the moment, we have met in video; the physical meeting is planned soon.
Help Sonia reach her goal by making a donation: