Chris Heaton ran 30 Marathons in 30 Days - September 2013 - raising funds to support vulnerable young people
Chris Heaton, a 54-year-old, from Sheffield, set out to run 30 marathons, in 30 days, circumnavigating two of the most difficult marathon courses in the UK in the process. Not only did he claim that he could do it, he wagered that he would complete each marathon in less than five hours.
On Saturday 31st August he set off on his first marathon, the idea to alternate between the Brathay Windermere and Great Langdale Marathon courses.
And now, after overcoming 30 days of physical and mental hardship, he’s actually done it! Cheered on by a disbelieving crowd Chris stormed across the finishing line, on the lawn of Brathay Hall, at 2:00pm on Sunday29th September. The gloriously sunny afternoon belied the pain and anguish that he’s been through over the last 30 days and the emotion, and utter relief, was clear for all to see as he embraced family and friends.
With the personal challenge complete Chris will now have the chance to calculate the financial implications of his success. His winnings come in the form of donations to Brathay Trust, the Ambleside based national charity that improves the life chances of children and young people, where Chris is a Trustee.
A surprisingly spright Chris said: “I'm very relieved and exhilarated that I’ve done it and although it’s been mentally very stressful, I always believed that I could do it.”
Mark Bushell, from Brathay Trust said: “It’s hard to imagine what Chris has been through but when you read that he’s taken 1.5 million steps, ascended and descended more than three times the height of Everest from sea level, and run 786 miles in 30 days, you know it must have hurt, both physically and mentally. The fact that he’s raised over £36,000 also shows that he’s put in a massive effort on fundraising, let alone training and undertaking the run itself.”
Money raised will support Brathay Trusts work, helping them to inspire children and young people to engage positively in their communities.
But what’s Chris going to do now that his epic challenge is over? “Nothing! I’m going to throw all my running kit away tomorrow morning.” he explained.
To sponsor Chris visit: www.justgiving.com/run30
