04 September 2013

Just over three weeks ago, T42 200m Paralympic and world champion Richard Whitehead (Keith Antoine/Liz Yelling) embarked on his quest to become the first double amputee to run from John O’Groats to Lands End. With the aim of covering 40 marathons in 40 days by September 23, the 37 year old is well on his way to completing an incredible feat.

"Why would anyone run a marathon a day from J O’Groats to Land’s End? The answer is simple – to prove that any barrier can be overcome. I’m living proof that having a disability shouldn’t stop you from achieving your goals."

So far Whitehead, who is better known to his GB & NI teammates as ‘The Beast’ has raised in the region of £43,000 for Sarcoma UK and Scope with the aim of taking his target to the £1 million mark following the completion of such an incredible feat.  

Whitehead’s inspiration for the run came from Canadian athlete Terry Fox, who attempted to run the breadth of Canada. After 3,339 miles, Fox was forced to stop after sarcoma (bone cancer) spread to his lungs during his mammoth voyage.  The cancer research activist died in 1981 at the age of just 22, but 32 years later, the Terry Fox Foundation has gone on to raise over $600m.

You can support Richard on his journey and donate via www.richardwhiteheadrunsbritain.com as he bids to raise £1 million for charity. You can also follow him on Twitter @marathonchamp