A Wiltshire man is taking on the challenge of a lifetime, running an ultramarathon every day for 62 days.
An ultramarathon is defined as any distance longer than a marathon (25 miles), and 52-year-old Frank Wainwright from Chippenham is running an ultramarathon every day for 62 days straight, clocking up a total mileage of 2,000 miles.
The challenge is all about raising money for youth development charities and as a father of four himself, Frank is keen to inspire the next generation to get outdoors.
While the ultramarathon challenge is inspiring, it is also a gruelling test of fitness and endurance as very few runners would be capable of running further than a marathon a day for 62 days straight.
The 54-year-old runner only took up the hobby seriously a few years ago and completed his first ultramarathon in 2018, with his second including a 125km volcano ascent.
Since then, he’s finished over 100 further ultras across the world.
“Being in lockdown in 2020 gave me a new appreciation for England – I travelled around it whenever I could, running and making new friends, finding inspiration every step of the way," said Frank.
"Throughout my past experiences, I have always championed youth and the great outdoors.
"I’m very positive about the next generation and given the right opportunities, they are destined to be better than us.
"The money raised and the message received will be used to hopefully build a lasting legacy – for young people growing up to make the best of the country that we live in, and to make it even better.”
Frank officially kicked off the challenge which he's calling 'Frank's Big TOE (Tour of England)' on July 1, 2024, and is covering every cathedral city starting in Newcastle and working in a clockwise loop across the country.
His route also takes in five national trails, six national parks and numerous landscapes.
Currently over £16,000 has been raised so far and the money will go towards a number of charities, including the Brathay Trust – which inspires young people to make changes that transform their lives.
To donate, visit, justgiving.com/page/frank-wainwright-bigtoerunner.
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