Two Australian teachers based in south west London are set to run the length of Britain this summer in an extraordinary endurance challenge to raise funds for children living with serious illnesses.
Nick Foster and best friend Jordan Stanton are self-described “average runners with a big dream” who will attempt to cover the 1,380km distance from John O’Groats to Land’s End in just 21 days, completing the equivalent of an ultra-marathon (around 70km) every day for three weeks straight.
The pair, who moved to London in 2023, are running in support of Rays of Sunshine, a UK charity which grants wishes to seriously ill children across the country.
Foster said: “We really like that it’s a positive charity with a really positive message that resonated with us.”
Foster came up with the idea after the two took part in the Paris Marathon last year and delved into the world of ultra-marathon podcasts.
They have since prepared hard for the feat, doing several 70km runs, tireless weight-training, and fine-tuning the logistics.
Foster said: “This isn’t about proving how tough we are.
“It is about using our bodies, our story and whatever platform we have to bring some light to those going through unimaginably difficult times.
“And I thought it would be a great way to see the country.”
While even seasoned runners might tackle such a feat with months, if not years, of preparation, the pair say their background is anything but elite.
Foster said: “This is also about proving that regular people can take on incredible physical challenges.
Stanton added: “There are a world of opportunities to how much you really want to push yourself, and that’s our ethos and that’s what’s going to get us across the finish line.
“It might not look pretty, but we’ll get it done.”
The challenge begins on 27 July, and the duo are keen to raise their fundraising target to £10,000 and meet lots of new people along the way.
For more information, or to support the campaign, visit here.
Anyone wanting to reach out to them and support them can do so by visiting the Foster’s Run Club or
Foster and Stanton‘s Instagram accounts.
Feature image: Nick Foster and Jordan Stanton
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