Andy McMenemy, a business man and the son of a former soldier, will be at Ryelands Park tomorrow (3rd May), starting at 9am, running his 49th marathon in as many days, as he continues his world record attempt to run 66 consecutive ultra-marathons in 66 days. He aims to raise £1million for the ABF, The Soldiers’ Charity (www.soldierscharity.org), which helps soldiers, former soldiers and their families.
An ultra-marathon is 31.07 miles or 50kms, 5.5 miles longer than a standard marathon. Andy is currently travelling around all 66 official cities of the UK, attempting ultra-marathons in each. This experienced runner is having no days rest in his attempt to set a new world record.
Andy said: “It is great to be running in Lancaster and I welcome anyone who wishes to show support or join me on this leg of my marathon journey to help The Soldiers’ Charity continue their fantastic work.
“The support Challenge 66 has received so far in the county is incredible, but we do need people to go to our website and donate to help us hit our target.”
ABF The Soldiers’ Charity provides a life time of support for soldiers and their families, both during active service and beyond, in times of conflict and in times of peace. Barry Groves, project director of Challenge66, said; “We encourage people to come out and support or run with Andy. Donations can be made via our website or by texting the word ARMY to 70700. Details of when and where he will be running can be found on our website www.challenge66.org”
Major General Sir Evelyn Webb-Carter, Chief Executive of The Soldiers’ Charity, added his support to the project. He said: “ABF The Soldiers’ Charity is thrilled and proud to be the beneficiary of Challenge 66. Andy’s attempt to set a new Guinness World Record for consecutive endurance marathons with no rest is a phenomenal feat of bravery and generosity which, I can assure you, is for an extremely worthy cause.
“Ordinary people going about their jobs in often extraordinary circumstances is what the Army is built on and if Challenge 66 brings about greater understanding of the sacrifices made by our troops it will be worth every step he takes.”