Yorkshire duo to cycle/run length of Britain in 12 days

The record holder for running the length of Britain and two enthusiastic marathon runners are joining forces in a unique 1,200 mile Land's End to John O’Groats running and cycling race.



This huge event is being promoted by the Soldier's Charity Army Benevolent Fund, with a convoy of runners and riders set to travel the length of Britain to raise money for injured soldiers and their families.



Sharon Gayter set the Land's End – John O’Groats women’s world record of 12 days, 16 hours & 23 minutes in 2006 and it still stands today. Next spring, Durham based Sharon will join catering director, Andy North, and chef, Dave Edwards, from Leeds for a leg of their attempt to achieve the distance in 12 days by way of 12 marathons and 12 x 80-mile bike races.



Both Andy and Dave have been planning the challenge for over two years and are well qualified for the task, having completed many marathons – Dave in some very rapid times under three hours. The pair ran the 120-mile Northern Coast-to-Coast Trail in three days and in October the Dales Way (Ilkley to Windermere). However, Andy hasn’t been on a bike in 30 years so a certain amount of saddle soreness can be expected in training, which is now under way.



All three athletes feel strongly about the continuing toll of British lives around the world especially in Afghanistan. This is why the Soldiers Charity was carefully selected.



Said Andy: “We’re all experienced athletes and passionate about this cause, so we thought we would put our fitness to the test with a deserving fund to benefit. We’re hoping other athletes and members of the public will join us and members of the armed forces along the way. We're actively seeking anyone who wishes to join in any section of the challenge, also corporate or individual sponsors and anyone who wishes to join our support team.”



The logistics would be...



2nd – 13th May 2010

12 Marathons

12 x 80 Mile Bike Race

12 Days

1,200 Miles



Each day they plan to run 26 miles (Marathon Distance) in the morning and 2 x 40 mile sessions on the bike during the afternoon & early evening.



Dates & Timings: Sun 2nd May Start of Event Lands End – Tue 4th May Chepstow – Wed 5th May Manchester – Thur 6th May Leeds / York – Sat 8th May Durham / Newcastle – Mon 10th May Edinburgh / Perth – Wed 12th May Inverness – Thur 13th May John O Groats & Finish.



Please contact Andy North (07879 628 486 or email andy.north@uk.issworld.com) if you would like to join the team or can offer sponsorship or corporate promotion.