Sunshine Squats: 24-Hour Challenge to Raise Funds for Dogs 4 Wildlife in Memory of Declan Simkiss
Family, friends, and the local community in Carmarthenshire are coming together to honour the memory of Declan Simkiss, who tragically passed away on 6 July 2025, through a unique 24-hour fundraising challenge.
The event, titled “Sunshine Squats”, will take place from 4pm on Saturday 31 January 2026 to 6pm on Sunday 1 February 2026, with participants taking on continuous squats in multiple events covering a full 24 hours.
One-minute squat challenge
In addition to the 24 hour series of events, in the lead-up to the 24-hour squat challenge, Declan’s family and friends are inviting everyone to join a one-minute squat challenge- testing how many squats can be completed in 60 seconds. Videos can be shared in the SUNSHINE SQUATS Facebook group, with participants nominating others to take part.
All funds raised will be donated to Dogs 4 Wildlife, a charitable organisation extremely close to Declan’s heart that trains and deploys specialist conservation dogs to work alongside anti-poaching rangers in Southern Africa. The charity also runs educational programmes for children in local communities, providing hands-on experiences in game reserves to foster a love of wildlife and conservation.
Rhian Brain, Declan’s partner, said:
“Declan was our sunshine – he brought warmth, kindness, and laughter wherever he went. Knowing that people are coming together to honour him while supporting a charity that meant so much to him is beyond words.
Paula and Dirk Simkiss, Declan’s parents said: “Sunshine Squats is not just about the challenge- it’s about love, community, and keeping Declan’s spirit alive through something positive.”
Declan’s memory will also be honoured with a memorial plaque in a South African game reserve, a tribute from Dogs 4 Wildlife in recognition of the funds raised. The family hopes to be present at the unveiling, making it a deeply moving occasion.
Jacqui Law, co-founder of Dogs 4 Wildlife, said:
“The generosity and commitment of families like the Simkiss family is what keeps conservation work alive. Every donation and every effort helps our dogs protect wildlife and educate the next generation about the importance of caring for our planet.
“Losing Declan is absolutely devastating but he continues to make a difference.”
Darren Priddle, co-founder of Dogs 4 Wildlife, added:
“With rhino poaching still claiming over 1,000 lives in Southern Africa over the past two years, the work of Dogs 4 Wildlife has never been more crucial. Declan’s memory will live on through this support, helping our dogs make a real difference in conservation.”
BB Gym bootcamp participants will lead the 24-hour squat challenge, testing physical endurance while celebrating Declan’s life and supporting a cause that was close to his heart. Members of the public are encouraged to attend, participate, or donate to support this important initiative.
For more information on how to donate or take part in Sunshine Squats, please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/family-simkiss?fbclid=IwdGRleANwU-1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHiMwQOTfLVrPY0St-kUnYKRoIQyKxxmlkH5a03qhoNLoUNRdn98f89R35mfT_aem_aOFBYMRO9L9Ute5zzvEU5Q
Visit the Sunshine Squats Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1105457951383014/