7 Marathons in 7 days in Pembrokeshire – £40k target – in aid of Suicide Prevention Charity, CALM
On 12th September, 4 childhood friends will set off to complete 7 marathons in 7 days to Conquer the Coast in Pembrokeshire, Wales.
Rufus McGrath, Geordie Wainwright, Jamie Prowse and Sam Lebus, all in their early twenties, aim to raise £40,000 for mental health charity CALM, the ‘Campaign Against Living Miserably’ which is leading a movement against suicide – particularly amongst young men.
The coastal path, which they will be running, covers 184 miles. It stretches from St Dogmaels in the north of Pembrokeshire to Amroth in the south. They will be covering the distance together, running 7 marathons in 7 days. The route has a total elevation change of 35,000ft, which is greater than the height of Everest.
Rufus McGrath comments: “In these odd times, I know that people can go for a run or bike ride or do exercise to clear their head, but it is only treating the short-term solution. CALM can view each individual from a neutral standpoint, calmly and dispassionately, and the fact that CALM is free is incredibly important in tackling this societal issue.
“We chose Wales and the Pembroke coast for this run as it is so astonishingly beautiful: the sea, the cliffs, the surrounding farmland and the totally awesome coastal paths. All four of us have felt so much goodwill locally and, though it is a daunting prospect, we are so lucky to be undertaking this challenge here in Wales.”
Geordie Wainwright – runner 2: “Running is often a solitary activity, so it’s great to feel a sense of togetherness by working together towards a common goal. Doing this challenge has already helped me develop a different attitude towards mental health. I now make a conscious effort to ask my friends how they’re doing so I can be there for them.”
Jamie Prowse – runner 3: “The challenge itself will be incredibly mentally tough, which aligns it with the charity we have chosen. It is a cause that is relatable to each and every one of us who has undergone a personal mental health battle or knows a loved one who has. It will undoubtedly test not only our physical endurance but also our mental fortitude like never before.”
Sam Lebus – runner 4: “I’m doing this challenge because the new focus on mental health illnesses has made me more aware of how problematic the current global circumstances can be for people everywhere. Running, for me, has been a real source of strength. It’s provided a focus when life feels messy and is often the antidote to a stressful day. I love the rhythmic movement and the power and control one feels when you’re moving your body through the motions.”
For more info on the challenge visit:
Conquer the Coast JustGiving Site
Conquer the Coast Instagram Site – @conquerthecoast2021