The SNAPS Superhero Challenge returns!
It’s time to don your capes and join us for the return of our much-loved SNAPS Superhero Challenge!
Taking place on Sunday, 31st May 2026, from 10.30am to 12.30pm at the John Charles Centre for Sport in Leeds, our Superhero Challenge is an inclusive, fun run-style event open to children of all ages and abilities.
Every child takes on their own challenge around the 400m athletics track in a way that works for them, whether that’s walking, running or wheeling. And of course, every superhero is cheered across the finish line and rewarded with a medal and goodie bag.
It’s not just about the challenge itself. Families can enjoy a full morning of activities, including superhero meet and greets, bouncy castles, inclusive sports, craft and sensory activities, games, face painting and even visits from the emergency services.
For many of our families, the Superhero Challenge is a highlight of the year. Mel and her four-year-old son Jakob will be joining us again this time.
Jakob, who is autistic and has multiple complex medical needs, has been part of SNAPS for around two years. For Mel, finding SNAPS made a huge difference.
“Before SNAPS, Saturdays were always hard,” she says. “There was nowhere we could go that could meet Jakob’s needs. Now he has a safe, supportive place where he can just be himself.”
Through SNAPS, Jakob has taken part in hydrotherapy, rebound therapy and Stay and Play sessions, helping not just him, but the whole family.
“I can actually sit down, relax and drink a cup of tea without worrying if he’s safe or being judged,” Mel shares. “Making friends with other parents who understand what daily life is like makes a huge difference.”
Last year’s Superhero Challenge was a particularly special moment.
“Seeing him running around the track and being cheered on was really special,” she says. “It’s such a fun, welcoming day where children are celebrated for who they are.”
Mel is also fundraising this year so more families can access the same support.
“Having a community and somewhere safe to go matters,” she says. “Events like this help make sure that support is there for families who need it.”
At SNAPS, we support children with additional needs and their families through therapies, leisure activities and a supportive community. SNAPS doesn’t receive statutory funding to deliver its services, so events like the Superhero Challenge play a vital role in helping us keep our services running.
We’re incredibly grateful to our event sponsors Irwin Mitchell, Manning Stainton, Enfinium and Taylor Wimpey Yorkshire for their support.
SNAPS’ Head of Fundraising, Lisa Morton, says: “The Superhero Challenge is designed so every child can take part in a way that feels right for them. It’s a positive, inclusive day that brings families together while helping to raise vital funds, so we can continue to be there for children like Jakob and their families.”
You can take part for free by committing to a minimum fundraising target of £55, which could fund a SNAPS physiotherapy session. Or if you prefer not to fundraise, entry is £12 per child. Adults attend for free.
Ready to join us? Register here.
