Only one submission so far.  Get your thinking hats on!

Answers to Uncle Bob

No wonder it’s been so *&%£+ hard, I’ve had to pull Jane around with me all the way!

After being out on the road for a week enduring torrential rain, gale force winds and even bearing the effects of sunburn, I was really glad to finish in the grounds of Bath Abbey.

... and this man's just run 400 odd miles!

Never have I been so glad to be back at home after having just over 4 hours sleep in total for the week.

Having just added up the total mileage from the log book which looks to be pretty accurate – I made the total mileage  for the 6 days – 8h and 10 mins at  ~ 440 .28 miles.

The whole run was an incredible experience only achievable by the incredible team work from all involved.

Looking back over the run – I feel so proud to know and be part of such a great team and to show the world just what we can achieve when we all pull together.

Many thanks & very best wishes,

John & Paddo.

The local Community Radio station, Somer Valley FM, has been following John’s progress over the last few years.  Pete Helmore has interviewed John several times to keep his exploits in the eye (or ear!) of the local community.

Below is a link to all of those interviews, so that you can track John’s progress for yourself.

Link here

Many thanks to Pete and Somer Valley.

John with Pete Helmore at Somer Valley FM

Sounds good, doesn’t it?

John broke the World Record for distance run in under 7 days at 11.07am Monday 7^th May 2012.  He had 21 hrs to spare compared to the previous record holder, so he then added about 17 more miles just to make sure.  This makes the total run an astounding 425 miles (approximately, pending further verification).

He was met at the Old Down Inn in Emborough by an ecstatic crowd of well-wishers, friends, family and fellow runners, as well as Clinton Rogers of BBC West.  There followed lots of hugs, cheering, smiles and back-patting.  After a quick interview for the BBC News, he continued on the Midsomer Norton Rugby Club for a circuit of the pitch in remembrance of his late cousins who had helped him so much in his recent illness.

Then on to Radstock for further celebrations mostly with his neighbours who were out in force with banners, balloons and flags.

The final push came an hour or so later when John ran to Bath Abbey for yet another celebration.  He was “escorted” by about a dozen other runners, many of whom had been with him on previous stints of the incredible journey.

He ran this leg at a blistering pace, surprising many be getting to Bath well ahead of expectation, and in the fastest time of the entire week.

The entourage shocked shoppers and tourists as we flew through the shopping centre.  Champagne, shouting and cheering were the order of the day, with loads of people wanting to be photographed with the new World Record holder.  This included some Americans who had to admit that the honour had now been lost by them and gained by Somerset.

One event brought the achievement into focus.  A couple in the crowd were Big Issue vendors, who have their own difficulties in life.  They promised to donate part of their next taking to Children’s Hospice South West, so impressed were they by John’s superb effort.

As we left for home, John said a couple of important things: “That is the last big run for me.  Now I can my life back.”  Then he said, “After all of the other big runs (110 mls, 140 mls, and 300 being the most notable) it took me 3-4 days just to settle to let the adrenaline and nerves settle, and to get some pattern back in life.  Now I feel just great, and there is no stress left.”

By the look on his face today (Tuesday) this is so true.  I have never seen him more relaxed and content, feet up on the coffee table with Paddo, the Mighty Wonder Dog, on his knee.

Don’t Forget – please donate what you can via Just Giving – See the logo link on the upper right of this page.

More photos to follow, then some recollection from the man himself.

World Record achieved at about 11.00am today, with 21 hrs to spare.

Now just the icing on the cake to finish in Bath, possibly 3-4.00pm

1.30am Monday

Last Schedule Update

Today is the day.  Sometime later this morning John will break the World Record for distance run in under 7 days, as stated by the Guinness Book of World Records.  The nominal place will be The Old Down Inn at Emborough, the time will be approximately 10.00-10.30am.

John is still in incredible form.  His determination is no less than when he started on Tuesday, and his ability to just keep going astounds us all.

He will finish the final, shortened circuit at his home, then he will run to Bath Abbey for the last section.  Please be there if you can to join in the celebrations.

at Bath Abbey half-past midnight, Monday 7th May

11am Sunday

New Schedule Here

John had an excellent run last night, but time has slipped a little.

The decision has now been made to shorten the route.  This will still give John the World Record, but will allow him to celebrate at Bath Abbey as originally planned and at a more reasonable time – mid-afternoon Monday.

Please check the new schedule attached to show the shortened route.  The changes basically are:

• Going straight from Temple Meads to Ashton Gate, cutting out Bristol centre
• Going straight from East Harptree to Radstock via Chewton Mendip, cutting out Priddy, Wells and Shepton Mallet

Tell everyone you know!!!

Caption Competition - First prize is a place on John's next run

11pm Saturday

Updated schedule shown here.  ONLY SATURDAY/SUNDAY TIMES ARE PREDICTABLE – SEE BELOW

Amazing improvement in John’s feeling of well-being.  The improvement in the weather has been a lot to do with it, but the support he’s had from fellow runners and supporters has been hugely significant.

Bath Abbey, Saturday evening 7pm

We ran the first stretch from Radstock to Bath (10 miles) 20 minutes faster than yesterday.  This shows how strong and positive he is.

WATCH THIS SPACE: we are considering some late changes to the route and schedule to recognise recent realities.  John will still achieve the main goals:

• Raising money for the Children’s Hospice South West
• Doing this by breaking the World Record

Keep your eyes open for late changes!!!!!!!!!!

10pm Friday (extra info 8am Sat – still on schedule! now done about 280 miles)

Updated schedule here, as at now.  REMINDER: if you want to know the latest situation so that you can join John , call him directly or his supporter as shown on the schedule.

The weather improves!  It may be colder and looking towards frosts, but it’s so much better than lashing rain.

John has recovered hugely from the chills he had during the torrential downpours.  He is now suffering from blisters which were inevitable from the constant soaking.

Bristol was full of people who wanted to join in.  The blessing is that it is really buoying John up; the down side is that it has delayed him, but we can live with that!

Finished Circuit 3 with a flourish.  220 miles completed!

Setting off on the next circuit at 13.00 Friday.  Schedule here.

Driving home from the Mendip Hills after indulging on a 22oz steak, it seemed impossible that after 10 months of organising, I was about to embark on the biggest run of my life – 140 miles non stop with only 7 hours remaining.

At 1.45am I was on my way to Cornwall, kindly driven by Kevin and accompanied by Bob who would be with me throughout the run.  On the way down I had plenty of time to reflect on what would be ahead and snatch snippets of sleep.

Standing at the entrance to Victoria Gardens in Saltash it was fast approaching 5am, the start time,  I  remember looking out into the darkness, then over to the Tamar Bridge with its bright lights highlighting the huge structure and for the first time feeling nervous about what the next 38 hours would entail.

5am was with us and so we set off, Kevin, Richard and myself down through Saltash High Street and across the Tamar that would escort me gently out of Cornwall with the dawn breaking around us.

Slight drizzle didn’t dampen our spirits or lessen the beauty that Plymouth had to show us.  Following the West Devon Way footpath with the River Plym in the background, we made our way to Marsh Mills and on the steady climb in all its splendour through Bickleigh Vale and on into Clearbrook where we had to depart from support runner Jo Jenkins who had kindly guided Bob and myself all the way up from Plymouth Hoe.

Yelverton soon approached where we met up with the mobile support crews.  A steep climb followed up the heavy road past Sharpitor, then I had the full attention of Dartmoor ahead of me and it wasn’t going to give me an easy time with the waves of rain sweeping through guided on waves of cold intermittent winds.  Despite this I felt that this was the true beauty of Dartmoor showing its more rugged exterior sheltering a more sensitive interior.  The dark rolling clouds threatening in appearance seemed to give a stark warning that Mother Nature was still in charge!

Looking back over my shoulder, I could just make out the coastline of Plymouth through the haze, before our arrival in Princetown – the first marathon was now completed with another four and a half to go!

On the way through Postbridge I couldn’t resist the temptation to cross the historic old Clapper Bridge that spans the East Dart River and wondered as to how many people must have crossed this magnificent structure.

Approaching Warren House Inn I admired the scenic views, but couldn’t help but notice how the road disappeared and then reappeared sometimes as many as three times from the view ahead indicating the rise and fall of the local terrain.

Dropping down off the Moors, the weather was starting to change with the rain slowly giving way to lighter skies.  My reward for reaching the Pony Centre on the way to Mortonhampstead was a pony biscuit which was gratefully devoured along with other refreshments on route.

Moretonhampstead gave me a warm feeling that we were well on the way into the run with 40 miles covered, but respectably another 100 still to go!

Five miles down the road near Meadhay I noticed that I had suddenly become very tired and that every part of me was beginning to struggle with the pace of the run.  The easiest option that I felt at this point was to simply sit down and rest or even just catch some sleep.  This was really a shock to me as I hadn’t felt like this in any of my training runs – several things suddenly sprung to mind – had I over done all the training runs leading into this one without enough recovery time?  Had I got the nutrition wrong?  Or had I gone without sleep for too long as this was now 12 hours into the run and I hadn’t slept properly for a day and a half?

I quickly came to the conclusion that I had become complacent during the run and hadn’t focused properly on what I was doing with all that was going on around me.  The remedy for this was ahead of me – a huge valley to climb out of with several miles of constant hills, it was going to be the valley or me that would come out the winner over the next hour and I hadn’t put 10 months of hard training in only to be defeated by some hill!

With this in mind we started out on the steep climb.  An hour later with support runners keeping up the gruelling pace we had overcome the hills, the tiredness, and all the aches and pains, I had literally run through the biggest psychological barrier of the whole run.

Running through Exeter I had passed the 2nd marathon landmark and felt really confident, we were well on schedule and with all the support given from both the runners and supporters who came out in the villages and towns the atmosphere was simply “amazing”.

Arriving at Broadclyst I had to prepare for the evening ahead, donning head torch, reflective jacket and bottoms just in case the night turned really cold.

As darkness fell, it felt a long time since I had watched the dawn surrender the night sky as we crossed the Tamar Bridge.

Deep in thought, as each step took me one ever nearer home I realised that a car had pulled up alongside of me, the window wound down and out came a outstretched hand containing a very appreciated fresh bag of chips !- just the fuel that is needed to get you through the long night ahead – many thanks Paul.

From Collumpton we passed through Uffcombe and on up into the Blackdown Hills where in the very early hours of Saturday morning I was greeted unexpectedly with a very cool glass of Guinness from a very kind group of people - supporting a man on the run under the cover of darkness!  In true style I celebrated having passed the 3rd marathon landmark.

Running along the quiet country lanes at 3 in the morning with my group of runners, I couldn’t help but wonder what the local wildlife must have thought was happening to their peace and tranquillity -especially as we cut down through a long forest at Staple Hill which was nice to have a break from pounding the tarmac roads.

Staplefitzpaine was sound asleep as we passed through with the night sky once again surrendering to the new day.  This was the first time that I had been out running non stop and had watched the sun rise, set, and then rise again.  The dawn brought us a really spectacular sunrise and highlighted such sights as the Somerset Levels and the little church that stands proudly on the top of Burrow Mump.

Reaching Othery we had climbed the short hill into the village when we stopped and I handed Rita, one of our support runners, her birthday card, then as a double celebration I opened a bottle of champagne to celebrate crossing the 100 mile location on our run.

Five minutes later the leading support crew returned looking for us only to find us having a party at 7.45 in the morning!

That wasn’t the only surprise that Othery had that morning.  As we passed through the village, I was greeted by a group of supporters and presented very kindly with a jar of pickled onions from one of them.  I did save them to after the run though – mainly to be kind to my support runners and crew!

Reaching High Ham was a great relief especially after climbing the really steep hill leading into the village that lives up its name; it was also at this point that we had covered the 4th marathon landmark.

Having passed along the two and a half  mile straight of Butleigh Moor we passed Ivythorn which was the 110 mile position of the run, I was now running further than I had ever done before.

Every thing felt really good at this point, I had to be careful and make sure that I did vital stretching at various locations to keep the body as supple as possible and to prevent seizures from happening , but more importantly I felt that all the training we had done over the previous months was really working.

Arriving at Glastonbury Abbey with the sun in all its splendour gave a very warm welcome with good crowds and a new team of support runners – including Richard & Vicky who were running their first marathon with me back to our home town of Radstock.

It seemed the perfect day – especially being greeted by Paddo my little dog that I hadn’t seen for some 34 hours since leaving home in the early hours.

Running up through Wells High Street was one of the many  highlights of the run that I was now appreciating, on home ground the Cathedral looked magnificent as we stood before her with the tall spires reaching out  up into the blue sky.

We set off again- up through the Old Bristol Road with its unforgiving steep climb onto the top of the Mendip Hills, at 125 miles and some 33 hours from the start line this would be the last major hill that I would have to encounter.  Passing Penn Hill television mast for me always brings a happy feeling as many a time she has welcomed me home after a long overnight run with her array of red lights visible for miles to guide me back.

A welcome stop at the Hunters Lodge in Priddy with a good glass of refreshing ale from Roger and Jackie saw me on my way past the sparkling Priddy Ponds which I must admit did look very inviting and cool during the afternoon sun.

Taking things very steady down over Smithams Hill which leads into East Harptree, I had Jessica my cousins little daughter holding tightly onto my hand guiding me through each painful step as we descended the steep slopes that seem to pull on every fibre in your body.

A really warm reception greeted us as we passed through the gentle streets of East Harptree, old friends & new faces greeted us on our long journey which really fills you with a sense of achievement and fresh energy.  Passing the Clock Tower and heading down the High Street I suddenly felt a little hand grasp hold of mine.  Looking down I saw it was Katie, Nicola’s little daughter who had wanted to run with us since passing through Moretonhampstead, running ahead of her dad.  Her big smile and endless energy was a real inspiration over the next couple of miles and led us pass the 5th marathon landmark.

Approaching Chewton Mendip I always look out for the church which highlights the quiet village’s skyline.  On up through the quite steep country lanes that eventually release you at Embrough Church and the fishing ponds.

At the Old Down Inn I had now only 6 miles to go to reach the finish line, again I felt in really good condition considering the amount of hours and punishment I had put my poor legs through.

At Midsomer Norton Rugby club I felt so happy to be so near to home yet the heart felt really heavy as I clasped hold of Jane’s hand and together we ran a lap of honour around the rugby fields to remember my two cousins – Philip and Stephen that I had lost in recent years.  This was soon lifted by the thought of what type of comment Phil would have come out with!

There was a good crowd at the club to give their support as I left with Jane to tackle the final stage of the run, I could see the Children’s Hospice South West banners being supported in Midsomer Norton along with their supporters cheers which gave a really emotional welcome.

The last mile I can only describe as “remarkable”, I had run 140 miles, well over 5 marathons and 30 miles further than I had previously run before and met some of the kindest people in the South West while doing so.

The finish line at the Miners Wheel Monument became visible as we rounded the last corner into Radstock.  Just before crossing the  line I thought to myself at how very lucky I had been over the last 6 years – because that was just how long ago it was that I learnt with the great help of Jo a district nurse and also my partner along with my cousins Phil and Steve to walk my first mile again.

There were people every where to welcome us home, the sight was amazing – I can remember crossing the finish line to loud cheers , banners and a feeling of I don’t believe that we have actually – finally – finished.  The crowds made me feel really proud to have such support.

The ten months leading up to this run covered 3,500 miles and it was worth every step to receive such encouragement and to raise awareness for the children and their families who benefit from the facilities at the Children’s Hospice South West.

I would like to personally thank everyone for all their time, help and endless support leading up to and during the run.

For the support crews and runners for all their time and commitment on training runs and the 140 mile run, Kevin for getting me to the start and running all those miles, and to every one who greeted us on the event to give their encouragement.

Thanks, Jane, for sharing the miles and for keeping me focused and positive.  Special thanks to Bob Powell for all his time and untold commitment in making this run possible.

Finally to Paddo my little dog for keeping an eye on me all the way from Glastonbury to the finish, head out of the passenger window of the support vehicle, looking back as if to say KEEP WITH IT OLD MAN !

Update 24th Dec – Run still on, but arrangements will depend on the weather.  For live information contact John on 07745 351278

Listen out on BBC Radio Bristol from Monday 6.15 onwards

John “I don’t like short runs” Reynolds is doing another training run in preparation for, what could be, a World Record event in 2011 or 2012.  To get as many miles as possible under his belt (or laces) he is aiming to run at least 200 miles over 3 days between Christmas and New Year.

Each day’s run will end at his home in Radstock (the exception on the last day).  The routes will be familiar to those of us who have supported him on his previous mammoth events.

Day 1, Monday 27^th December

This starts from Bath Abbey at 6.00am, travels through Wells to High Ham, then returns by the same route, finishing at about 2.15am on Tuesday morning.  This is a total of 80 miles.

Day 2, Tuesday 28^th December

Similar to Monday, but going as far as Othery, starting at 10.15am at Radstock, ending at 7.00am Wednesday morning back in Radstock.  This is about 80 miles.

Day 3, Wednesday or Thursday 29^th/30^th December

If John feels up to it, he will run a further 80-odd miles, starting from Radstock at 3.00pm, going as far as Burrowbridge, then back via Wells to Winford, to finish at the Prince of Waterloo around mid day.

If he is not feeling that energetic, he may do a 40 mile alternative that only (?) goes as far as Coxley, to end up at the Prince of Waterloo again around mid day.

If you can join him on any of these legs, call or text John on 01761 433173 or 07745 351278 or email on john.reynolds64@btinternet.com

Route Information

Xmas day1

Xmas day2

Xmas day3 80

Xmas day3 40

John “Mad Doggy” Reynolds is doing a practice run this Sunday 10^th April, starting from  Charterhouse Centre at 7am and finishing back there at about 5pm, circling Chew Valley, Blagdon and Cheddar lakes.  Total distance about 38 miles, broken down into sections.  Schedule and maps can be shown below.

For the purists, this run will be about 85% off road.  There are plenty of shortcuts available if you only want to do one or two lakes (thanks, Martin)!

You are all welcome to join in for any distance you like, just bring cakes, Guinness and dry socks.  Lunchtime break at Blagdon – meet at the village hall car park and a pub will be selected.

3 Lakes schedule

3Lakes Map1

3Lakes Map2

3Lakes Map3

3Lakes Map4

John completed the run in great form but high heat.

Pictures here, thanks to Simon Jones and Sophie (small bown and hairy).  More info to follow – see Recent Posts ->

Now for the even bigger one.

John will run from Land’s End to Bath, starting on the evening of Thursday 26th May, and finishing the following Monday 30th at Bath Abbey.

If you can help John in any way contact here:

john@championrun.org.uk

01761 433173 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 01761 433173 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

07745 351278 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 07745 351278 end_of_the_skype_highlighting

Here is the schedule – Main route May (small update 17/5/11)

Here are the maps.  The first set are new for the 2011 run.  The second set are from the 2010 run with the addition of the Wells leg. Read the rest of this entry »

Well, he’s done it again.  John Reynolds beat all the sceptics and doubters and breezed home to Bath Abbey after 300 miles and 95.5 hours of hills, hills, and more hills, and half an hour ahead of schedule.

John started with a small band of supporters at Land’s End on the evening of Thursday 28^th May, in a force 8 gale.  Sunshine, torrential rain, Mendip Mist and fog were only some of the challenges.

The plan included 3 six hour stops for rest and recuperation, as well as being a time buffer to cover eventualities.  Even so, John only slept about 5 hours over the 4 days, much of that in power naps in the support car.

Along the way, John was supported by continual phone calls from friends and radio stations, including Emma Britton from BBC Radio Bristol, who seems to have fallen for our John in a big way!  He also had lots of people putting their hands in their pockets to give donations to John’s favourite charity, Children’s Hospice South West.

More details will follow – watch this space

It’s hard to believe that John Reynolds can do even more than he’s achieved in the past.  No more is 110 miles, 140 miles or even 300 miles enough.  Now he’s doing a practice run in preparation for what could be a World Record attempt in 2012.

Between Christmas and New Year 2011 John will attempt to do 370 miles in just over 5 days!!!.

New Year Schedule 370 updated Weds 28th

Link to GoogleMaps here

The circuit he has chosen starts form his house in Westfield on Boxing Day 26^th December at 8am and finishes back at home the next morning at about 2am.  Then he repeats the circuit in reverse, starting again at 8am, and so on until the finish on Saturday morning at about 10am at Radstock Miner’s Wheel.

This circuit takes in Bath, Bristol, Clifton Downs and the Suspension Bridge, Dundry, The Harptrees, Priddy, Wells, Shepton Mallet, Nettlebridge and back home.  Each circuit is about 74 miles.

If you fancy joining John, let him know on 01761 433173 or 07745 351278, or at john@championrun.org.uk

Here are some guidelines for running with John:

• He will be running quite slowly, an average of just about 4 miles an hour, so don’t expect to be overly exerted
• Bring flasks of tea, biscuits, cakes and sweets, but not heavy proteins, as he can’t digest those whilst running
• He loves to have company, so keep chatting, but don’t be surprised when he has quiet sessions – the whole journey is a major psychological triumph!
• Offer to carry John’s backpack, but he may choose to keep it on
• The schedule is a guidance; he does not have to religiously stick to timings so don’t try to get him to run faster
• You will need to contact John to find out exactly where he is so you can join him on the route
• You will need to arrange your own transport, drop-off and pick-up
• Wear high-viz at all times, and preferably flashing lights in the dark
• Enjoy yourself on this amazing event!

Dateline Wednesday 28th December 2011, 10:27 am

John has endured a wet and stormy night and morning, but is currently past the 150 mile point.  He is only 1 hour outside his schedule – not bad for over 50 hours duration.  His spirits are high.  “The first two days are usually the worst, so that’s now over.  Feeling great!”

He is expecting some other runners to join him through the day.  Anyone else who feels the urge, check the schedule below, and phone him on 07745 351278 to arrange rendevous.

John has decided that the anticlockwise route is far better than the clockwise, so Thursday and Friday will both be anticlockwise.

Amended schedule now shown here – REMEMBER all times are approximate, call John on  07745 351278 if you want to join him

Late start (10:30) after needing a foot massage but feeling better than yesterday!  All timings will now be 1.5 hrs late

He is in great form, but had  a scare this morning with a badly swollen foot.  Some massage and cold compresses got it back to near normal size, so he set off about an hour and a half late.  As the day went on, his foot and other important parts (?) loosened up, so he is now going quite comfortably.

He has had people with him, either running or driving support vehicles, for most of the last couple of circuits, with some promises for the rest.  More volunteers would be welcome.  He is also now a great supporter of KFC, certain fish and chip shops in Bath, and Greggs doughnuts.

Last lap!

John was late back this morning, but that didn’t prevent him getting going on time at 11:00am for the final stint of 3 back-to-back marathons.  He looked relaxed and was running well.  By the time he passes Peasdown St John (about 11:45) he will be in new territory, having exceded his previous personal record of 300 miles

The weather outlook is grim for most of today, but at least a bit warmer.

John arrived at Winford at 11:15pm, about 1.5 hrs behind schedule.

He has survived truly horrible weather today, which has been sapping his energy.  Add to this no sleep last night, a foot problem and now a pulled muscle in his thigh, and you can imagine how he needs to dig deep to keep going.

He has now completed 90% of his target 370 miles, and his determination to complete the task is humbling for the rest of us.  Thankfully, it looks as if he may have support runners with him for the final 38 miles – a marathon and a half!

Despite force 7-8 winds and yet more rain, John is well on his way with only 9 miles to go!!!!!

Expected finishing time 10:40- 11:00am at Radstock Wheel

Last week, when most people were enjoying the festive celebrations by eating, drinking and watching too much TV, John Reynolds ran 370 miles over five days for charity.  Starting from his home in Radstock each day, John undertook a circuit of 74 miles taking in Bath Abbey, Clifton Suspension Bridge, Dundry, Chew Stoke, East Harptree, Priddy, Wells and Shepton Mallet before returning home.

If the mileage alone was not enough, John had to battle severe sleep deprivation as he had less than an hour’s sleep between each of his mammoth circuits.  The weather was also bad with gales on the Mendips and pouring rain, particularly on the Friday.

In total, it is estimated that John used up 40,000 calories or the equivalent of about forty Christmas dinners during his run.

John was supported by a team of runners and drivers who kept him company and made sure he was adequately hydrated and fed throughout his journey.  Drawn from Wells City Harriers and Mendip Hills Hash House Harriers the support team included Bob, Tracey, Kevin, Pat, Chris, Viv, Richard (x3), Dan, Claire, Ian, Sarah, Steve, Rita, Phil, Laura, Ali, Jane and Margaret.

John did his run in aid of Children’s Hospice South West.  A number of years ago, whilst in hospital being treated for a serious illness, John took inspiration from the courage of the ill children who were being treated with him and ever since he has been running very long distances to raise funds for the charity.

In fact, last week’s run was just ‘training’ for an even bigger run that John is planning for May 2012, when he will attempt to beat the world record for the furthest distance covered over 6 days which is 410 miles.  John plans to smash this record by running 454 miles over the same 74-mile circuit that he has just used.

John will attempt the World Record for distance run in under 7 days.  It is currently set at 408 miles, held by an American, so John aims to bring it home to Blighty!

Dates are now confirmed as 1st to 7th May, finishing on Bank Holiday Monday at Bath Abbey.

John has now confirmed that the route will be largely as the Christmas/New Year practice route (itself a mind-boggling 370 miles in 5 days).  This will only be  anti-clockwise, so will be roughly the same each day, starting and ending at John’s home in Radstock.  The route (subject to refinements) is shown here, and the schedule here (updated 3 April 2012).

John telling Steve Cram a thing or two about running!

Recently, John met with Steve Cram.  Steve is a British Icon recognised as one of the finest athletes of his generation. He is a World, Olympic, European and Commonwealth medallist as well as 3 time World Record holder during his illustrious athletic career. He was recognised for his achievements by winning the BBC Sports Personality of the year in 1983, and receiving his MBE in 1986.

John met Steve when the Children’s Hospice South West was announced as one of the 3 sponsored charities for the Bristol Half Marathon to be held in September this year.  John is also helping a rookie runner, Bethan Jones, who is a fundraiser for the other local charity, CLIC Sargent.  Coverage of this support can be seen here.  Steve is involved with the English Institute of Sport and is also the Founder and Chairman of COCO (Comrades of Children Overseas), a WORLDWIDE charity set up to break down barriers to child education and reduce infant mortality, and is the third sponsored charity for the Bristol Half.

We Need Help!

As usual, John will be relying on help from anyone who can give some time for this incredible event.  We need people who can either run with John, or, equally importantly, man the support vehicles that will need to be available throughout the 7 days.

If you can help, please contact John at john@championrun.org.uk or by phone on 01761 433173 or 07745 351278

John is now ready for his attempt on the World Record for distance run in under 7 days, as defined by the Guinness Book of World Records.

If you want to cheer, run or help in any other way, have a look at the schedule here.  Remember – times are approximate, as are the distances shown here.  Route map shown here.

If you need to know how he is progressing, and want to get in touch, call him on 07745 351278 or contact the supporters shown on the schedule.

We will try to keep regular updates going on this site.

This picture shows the sort of dinner he needs to take on board to get ready – not for the slimmers out there!

Dinner for one!

As at 10pm Tuesday night, John is 1.5 hours ahead of his gruelling schedule.  The start this morning was in torrential rain, but his spirits were not dampened!

There have been loads of people tooting car horns, stopping to shout encouragement.  John seems to have spent hours on the phone being interviewed by local and national radio.

Follow John’s progress (slow that it may seem) on http://runreplay.com/replay.aspx?event=1425

The photos below show what the weather was like, and some of the hills as well!  Guess the sequence…

9pm Wednesday

The first day started with torrential rain, and progressed through brilliant sunshine.  We haven’t seen those extremes yet, but the overnight weather forecast does not look promising.  Roll on Friday and beyond which look better, but Monday threatens!

John is in great form for someone who has now covered about 120 miles with little in the way of rest.  He’s benefitted from loads of runners joining him, and a flood of phone calls from friends, family and other interested followers.

High point of the run so far must be meeting many of the children and families representing the Children’s Hospice at Wraxall.  They ran with him across Clifton Suspension Bridge at 3.30 in the afternoon.

Photos to follow.

What a night!  “It was coming down like stairrods!” is John’s description of the rain over night.

He finished pretty well on schedule, but was feeking totally drained.

As a result he will start Day 3 about an hour later than scheduled.  We have plenty of buffer in the plan, so this is not a problem.

As usual, if you want to join John, call him on 07745 351278 to check progress.

Main schedule can be seen here.  Route map here

10:25pm Thursday

It’s been a foul day for weather.  John has had to battle some of the worst that nature can throw at him.  He became chilled to the bone last night, and has had to do some more battling to overcome this.

The result in the short term is that he is a few hours behind schedule.  It is unlikely he will start the Friday/Saturday circuit before 11am Friday, possibly a bit later.  This does not jeopardise the World Record yet, but there is a lot to do.

Support from fellow runners and the public in general has been fantastic.  Thanks to all.

Updated schedule here (as near as we can get it).  This will be updated as and when we can.

9:00am Friday

We still call it Day 3, but it really is Circuit 3.

John is carrying on regardless.  Regardless, that is, of continuing bad weather and incredibly sore feet.  The constant wet has caused painful blisters which are being treated, but are a cause of concern.

He is now about 7 hours off schedule.  A large part of the slippage has been due to John taking the opportunity for resting and allowing his body some recovery time.  His spirits are high, helped by the stupendous and continuing support along the way.  Some of the support crews have been on the go for well over 24 hrs at a stretch.

We will continue to update expected timings.  The latest here..  Final finish time is anyone’s guess at the moment!