Alex tackles “crazy” challenge for charity
A fitness fanatic from Exeter is planning to run 100 miles in 24 hours to raise money for two local causes.
Alex Sparkes, 30, will start on Exeter Quay at 12 noon on Saturday December 14 and run four-mile loops throughout the night and the following day.
He’s raising money for FORCE Cancer Charity and the children’s ward at the Royal Devon and Hospital.
“I’ve done lots of 50 and 60 mile runs but not something of this intensity. I think I’ve got it in the locker,” said Alex, a personal trainer and online coach who set up the All In Run Club a year ago and has seen it go from strength to strength with 300 members for their weekly runs and track nights.
“Fitness is my thing so that is my way of doing something,” he said. “It needed to be something big – I don’t do half measures. I wanted something to scare me. I think it’s going to be a huge mental challenge. I’m nervous – the fear is not knowing whether I can do it. You put yourself on the line. I’ve been ramping up the training over the last couple of months with a 12 hour run planned and if I can do that, I feel I can get there.”
Mum Catherine and dad Andrew think he’s crazy to attempt the 24 Hours All In challenge but will be supporting him all the way.
“I asked my mum what charity I should support and she said FORCE straight away. They supported her and my dad during her breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. It was a tough time for everyone but made easier with their support and guidance for which I am forever grateful,” said Alex.
He also intends to buy gifts for Bramble Ward at the RD&E for children spending time in hospital over Christmas.
“Everyone deserves to feel some joy at Christmas,” he said. “Money raised will be used to buy mystery presents that will be put in the waiting room for this ward. Children can take one for themselves so that the young people who have the misfortune of needing to be in hospital can receive a gift.”
Alex set an initial target of £1,000 but reached that really quickly so raised it to £2,000 and has smashed that too, getting to £2,500 with a month to go.
He hopes to use the Transit Shed on Exeter Quay as a base for food, water, massage and physio support. The idea is to complete each loop in 50 minutes with a 10-minute break every hour so there is a buffer built in to complete their target distance.
“We’ll eat, drink, cry maybe and go again,” said Alex.
You can support him at Crowdfunding to support Force Cancer Charity & Exeter Hospital Children's Ward on JustGiving
“Any donation can make a huge difference to those involved with either of these charities. Their work is exceptional,” he said.
