14 half-marathons in 14 days for fearless fundraisers
Two men are taking on a gruelling half-marathon challenge over 14 days to raise as much money as they can for Birmingham Children’s Hospital.
From April 1, friends Ben Blundell and Chris Whiting, both 36, are running a half marathon daily for two weeks – 14 back-to-back runs of 13.1 miles each.
“About a year ago we were both a bit out of shape and decided we would do some running together,” said Chris.
“We progressed and wanted to use this new interest to do something good and decided to give ourselves a tough challenge.”
Ben, from Codsall, and Chris, from Compton, have been putting in the miles to prepare for the challenge covering 60 kilometres a week over the past few months.
Chris said: “We both enjoy it. It has been great to get out of the house during lockdown – you come back from a run a feel great.”
They are planning to get up at 5.30am for a 6am run during weekdays and get the miles in during the day at weekends.
“We will probably take it steady running each half marathon in 2 hours give or take,” said Chris who added that he has at least four pairs of trainers but plans to wear the most comfortable and expects them to be worn out by the end.
The training runs have taken in Compton, Tettenhall and Castle Croft but also Brewood and Bishop’s Wood and the pair plan to mix up their routes during the challenge to keep it fresh.
Most of all they want to raise as much money as they can.
Chris added: “We have both got kids and Birmingham Children’s Hospital is such a great cause.
“We are already up to our £1,500 target which is great - a big thank you to everyone who has supported us with a donation.”
Anyone wishing to donate can visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/ben-blundell2.
