Sam Boatwright nears end of 2,500-mile challenge (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Sam Boatwright nears end of 2,500-mile challenge

9:50am Thursday 24th May 2012 in News

The finish line is in sight for former Royal Navy sailor Sam Boatwright.

The 29-year-old is on day 48 of an awe-inspiring challenge, which will see him complete 50 miles every day for 50 consecutive days – to raise money for Help for Heroes.

He is only two days away from completing his 2,500-mile challenge, dubbed the Epic Run which began in Blackpool on April 6.

Effectively running the equivalent of more than two marathons per day, he has traversed the length and breadth of the UK.

Mr Boatwright, of Silsden, is due to finish at Skipton Rugby Club on Saturday at 1pm where he will be given a hero’s welcome, led by wife Sara and a representative from Help for Heroes.

The personal trainer begins his challenge each morning at 8am and runs for nine hours burning up to 6,000 calories per day.

He said: “I wanted to do something that pushed my body beyond the limit of what’s normal. I looked at going up Everest or K2 but you can almost get pushed up to the top, it’s just a case of your body acclimatising.

“I wanted to do something I had to do myself.

“But let’s not forget the real reason behind the Epic Run – I want to honour the men and women who have served our country and have lost their lives or those who have had their lives radically altered through injury. It’s so important we help these people – they are heroes.”

Mr Boatwright, who plays rugby for Skipton, has been overwhelmed by the kindness of total strangers.

He said: “I’ve gone on about broken Britain in the past but so many spectators have given me money on this run – they have been so generous, it’s something I’ll always remember. People talk about the North-South divide but I’ve not seen anything like that – just pure decency.”

He has also received a message of support from comedian and fellow marathon runner John Bishop.

The comedian said: “Please support Sam on this impressive challenge – 2,500 miles around the coast of Great Britain without a day off... he’s almost near the 50th day!”

Mr Boatwright is planning another run next year. This time across the United States.