2025 marks an exciting milestone for The Big Cat Sanctuary – 25 years of caring for endangered big cats and supporting global wildlife conservation. To celebrate this achievement and raise vital funds, our CEO Lynn Whitnall, who also leads Hertfordshire Zoo, is taking on an inspiring series of physical and endurance challenges throughout the year.
Her goal? To raise £25,000 through her “25 for 25 Challenge” – supporting animal welfare, international conservation efforts, and children with disabilities in sport.
Why Lynn is Raising Funds
As part of this ambitious fundraising effort, Lynn is supporting three impactful causes:
- The Big Cat Sanctuary – for the ongoing care and enrichment of our rescued big cats and to support international conservation partners.
- Hertfordshire Zoo – contributing to the protection and welfare of animals in our care and the continuation of education and conservation programs.
- The President’s Sporting Club – empowering children with disabilities through sport, with many participants going on to represent Team GB at the Paralympics.
Big Cats in Crisis: Building a New Home for Rescued Lions
In 2024, The Big Cat Sanctuary launched one of its most ambitious projects ever – the Lion Rescue Centre, part of our Big Cats in Crisis campaign. This initiative provides a forever home for five traumatised lions rescued from war-torn Ukraine. These majestic animals – Yuna, Rori, Vanda, Amani, and Lira – are now settling into their specially designed habitats and receiving the loving care they need to heal and thrive.
Funds raised through Lynn’s challenges will help support the lions’ ongoing care and the Sanctuary’s global conservation work.
Lynn’s Upcoming 2025 Fundraising Challenges
Known for her adventurous spirit and dedication to fitness, Lynn is no stranger to endurance events. Here’s what she has planned for 2025:
- Boston Marathon – Monday 21st April 2025
(Aiming to complete her 6 World Marathon Majors medal!) - 🏃 London Marathon – Sunday 27th April 2025
Lynn’s 22nd consecutive London Marathon, and her 31st marathon overall! - 🛶 Thames River 200 Ultra Kayak Challenge – 23rd & 24th August 2025
A grueling 125-mile kayak challenge down the Thames. - 🌍 Madagascar Conservation Trek – October 2025
A conservation awareness expedition with SEED Madagascar, supporting environmental and community programs.
Plus, Lynn has even more challenges lined up—from mountaineering feats to charity party nights—all in support of animals, conservation, and inclusion in sport.
How You Can Help
You can be a part of Lynn’s incredible journey by donating and sharing her mission. Every pound raised goes directly toward animal welfare, conservation, and supporting children with disabilities through sport.
🔗 Donate or follow Lynn’s journey: https://www.justgiving.com/page/lynnwhitnall1
🌐 Learn more about our charities:
- Hertfordshire Zoo: www.hertfordshirezoo.com
- The Big Cat Sanctuary: www.thebigcatsanctuary.org
- The President’s Sporting Club: www.presidentssportingclub.co.uk
Follow the Adventure
Don’t miss a moment! Follow Hertfordshire Zoo and The Big Cat Sanctuary on social media for the latest updates, event photos, and behind-the-scenes moments from Lynn’s 25 for 25 Challenge.
Let’s make 2025 a year to remember – for the animals, the planet, and the people we’re proud to support.
