All-day fundraiser to take place for Northampton man murdered in Florida nine years ago

A Northampton charity founded in memory two friends who were murdered on holiday in 2011 are hosting an all-day fundraiser to mark James Kouzaris birthday.

The charity, Always A Chance, was launched by the families of James Kouzaris, from Kingsthorpe, and James Cooper, from Warwickshire, after the pair died in Sarasota, Florida, in 2011.

Since Mr Kouzaris passing in 2011, the charity 'Always A Chance' has marked his birthday on July 18 with a yearly fundraising event called ‘Jog for James’.

This year, due to the Covid-19 lockdown, Chasing the Sun has been devised as an inclusive way for people round-the-world to join forces in memory of James.

Hundreds of participants are committing to completing 30 minutes of exercise during the event, through yoga, cycling or running to raise money for the charity dedicated to the duo.

It is hoped combined efforts will create a 24-hour relay of continuous physical activity, which will be shared with videos and pictures on social media throughout the day.

All proceeds from the event will be donated by the charity, Always A Chance, to Women’s Aid and Action Aid.

James’ dad Pete Kouzaris said: “We’re delighted to launch Chasing the Sun in memory of James.

"He loved to travel and was passionate about sport, so this seems like a fitting and exciting way to bring people together from around the world in memory of him and in support of Always A Chance, Women’s Aid and Action Aid.”

In the last nine years, the charity has hosted a number of unique events, such as a man-powered relay to all 92 football league clubs and a 24-hour football marathon.

Always A Chance has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds to fund projects, which support victims of violence and young people at risk of becoming involved in violent crime.

For the past three years, Always A Chance has part-funded the Engage Project with the Northampton Saints Foundation, an inclusion programme working with students struggling in the traditional education system.

Participants can register here.