Hardest Geezer Completes Africa Run, Hints at Next Challenge
A man named Russell Cook, also known as "Hardest Geezer," completed a grueling run across Africa, covering over 10,190 miles (16,400km) in 352 days.
Despite facing complications with visas, health scares, geopolitical issues, and an armed robbery, Cook finished the challenge in Tunisia and raised over £775,000 ($978,000) for charity.
He told the BBC that he was likely to plan new challenges soon but was currently looking forward to relaxing and spending time with his family.
Cook began his extreme run at South Africa's southernmost point on April 22, 2023.
Mr. Cook initially aimed to complete the equivalent of 360 marathons in 240 days.
However, due to complications, he extended the challenge.
Before starting, he expressed a desire to overcome struggles with mental health, gambling, and drinking, and have no regrets in life.
Upon finishing, he stated that quitting was never an option.
His primary motivation was leaving a legacy for his family and the Cook name.
He faced challenges such as Sahara Desert sandstorms and increasing mileage towards the end.
The scariest moment was in the Congo while on a motorbike, fearing for his life during the journey into the jungle.
A man named Mr. Cook is running through 16 countries in Africa, aiming to be the first to complete a lengthy challenge.
He's been joined by many people, and the publicity surrounding his run has surprised him.
Mr. Cook is raising funds for The Running Charity, which helps young people with homelessness or complex needs, and Sandblast, which runs educational programs in Algerian refugee camps.
However, his claim to be the first person to run the length of Africa has been disputed by the World Runners Association, a group of seven athletes who have previously circumnavigated the world on foot.
Jesper Kenn Olsen from Denmark became the first person to run the entire length of Africa, covering 7,948 miles (12,791km) from Taba, Egypt to the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa.
He started his journey on December 28, 2008, and completed it in 2010.
Other long-distance runners have attempted similar feats, and Olsen's association expressed respect for their accomplishments as well.