Three Starship delivery robots are training to take part in a 10-mile charity event in Milton Keynes this weekend.
The bots will be competing against each other by making deliveries across Milton Keynes, with the fastest robot being chosen to take part in the All New Moo for Willen Hospice this Saturday (12/9).
Willen Hospice usually hosts one of the most anticipated charity events of the year, the Midnight Moo, but due to social distancing restrictions it can no longer go ahead.
The charity has since launched the #AllNewMoo in its place which invites people to walk, run or even scoot a route of their choice from their own homes. Anyone can take part, even robots, and can choose whether they want to take on either five or ten miles for charity.
Organisers are asking those who take part to gather sponsorship for their Moo. This will make a huge difference to the Hospice, which is facing a staggering loss in fundraising income due to the cancellation of their usual summer events and activities.
On Saturday, the winning Starship robot will repeatedly whizz around Willen Lake passing Willen Hospice until it reaches the 10-mile mark. The time it takes the robot to complete the ‘All New Moo’ will be recorded, and other Moo walkers or runners can attempt to beat its time.
The team behind the new event will be recreating the unique atmosphere of the Midnight Moo by hosting a Zoom party between 8am and 6pm. Participants can log on and join in as they set off on their route, during it, and on their return. A cheer point will be located in front of the Hospice gardens on Willen Lake, and everyone who walks past will receive a special cheer and some surprises from the charity’s fundraising team. There will also be an opportunity to post a message on the special ‘memory wall’ that will be outside the Hospice grounds during the event.
Everyone who joins in will be asked to link to Strava so that their miles can be added to a grand Moo total.
There is still time to register for the All New Moo, and you can do so here. It costs £20 per adult to register, which includes a Moo vest, and costs £8 per child... it doesn't have an option for robots though.
